Think Out Loud

How to talk to kids about politics, the pandemic and other difficult subjects

By Julie Sabatier (OPB)
Jan. 21, 2021 6:23 p.m.

Broadcast: Friday, Jan. 22

Jane Kostenko / Flickr

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This past year has been tough for kids, and the pandemic is far from over. Kids have many questions about the uncertain future, and parents have very few answers. Discussing the pandemic and recent news events like the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol with children and teenagers can be tricky. Craigan Usher advises parents to start by listening to what their kids have already heard and what questions are top of mind for them. Usher is a professor of child psychiatry at Oregon Health & Science University. He joins us to talk about discussing difficult topics with kids.

If you or someone you know may be considering suicide, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.

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