How to Foster Resilience Increase connections: Families can benefit from spending increased time together, providing extra reassurance and hugs, and reaching out to other family or community members. For example, reach out to those in the mili- tary or those with families in the area and check how they are doing and what they need during these stressful times. Emphasize the helpers: Caregivers can support children by highlighting the many ways people are working to sup- port those affected by war and to end the conflict. If children wish to help those impacted by the war, consider ways to do so including sending letters to the troops, sending donations to responding charity organizations, supporting local refugee organizations, or par- ticipating in activities being offered by your faith, culture, or community organizations. Keep to routines: In times of stress, routines can be comforting for children and teens. As much as possible, keep to your routines and schedules in the face of current events. For those that are worried about economic hardships, discuss as a family the activities that can be done together that will not add to this burden but will still offer moments of laughter and joy. Offer patience: In times of stress, children and teens may have more challenges with their behavior, concen- tration, and attention. Caregivers can offer additional patience, care, and love to children and themselves, in recognition that everyone could be affected. Remember, just as you are being extra patient and caring with your children, you need to be patient and kind to yourself as we all may feel increased stress at this time. Talking to Children about War www.NCTSN.org