In these challenging times, it is crucial for educators and families to have access to appropriate resources to engage in meaningful discussions with students about the events in Israel and Gaza. 

Los Angeles County is home to students and staff who may be deeply affected by current events as well as previous exposure to the rise in Antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents.  As educators, we aim to create a safe and inclusive environment for all members of our community to learn about current events and process their emotions. 

As is the case with other violence around the world, it is likely that our students have access to unprecedented levels of information and potentially misinformation.  In addition, graphic images and footage of violent conflicts are not easy to process, especially for children and youth. It's even more difficult for those who have experienced trauma or witnessed violence themselves. 

Parents, caregivers and educators are faced with the challenge of explaining violence and war to children. Although difficult, these conversations are extremely important and in the context of human history help us work towards peace. 

Below are resources to help children feel more secure and understand the world in which they live. These resources are intended to provide access to information and educators are encouraged to determine which ones are most appropriate for their students. 

• Talking to children about violence: Tips for parents and teachers (NASP)  

•  Fostering Civil Discourse: How Do We Talk About Issues That Matter  (Facing History and Ourselves) 

• Classroom Deliberations (Street Law) 
  

• Conducting a Civil Conversation in the Classroom (Constitutional Rights Foundation) 

• Talking With Children About War and Violence In the World (Teacher Vision)  

• Resources For Educators, Families to Discuss the Events in Israel and Gaza with Students (San Diego County Office of Education)

• Multilingual Trauma Resources (Child Mind Institute) 
  

 SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL LEARNING RESOURCES  

• How to Talk to Kids About Violence, Crime, and War (Common Sense Media) 

• Talking to Your Kids About War (VeryWell Family)  

• How to Talk to Your Children About Conflict and War (UNICEF) 

• Handle with Care: Supporting Young People During Crises (Learning for Justice)