In a world that feels like it’s spinning faster every day, our children are growing up surrounded by headlines on phones, in classrooms, overheard on the news, or shared in conversations at school. Whether it’s conflict overseas, natural disasters, climate change protests, or national political debates, kids are absorbing the world in real time. The question is: Are we making space to talk with them about it?
As parents, one of the most powerful things we can do is create intentional moments of connection to help our children process what they see and hear. And one of the simplest, yet most impactful places to do this? The dinner table.
The Dinner Table: A Safe Place in an Uncertain World
Research tells us that regular family dinners are linked to improved vocabulary, higher self-esteem, better academic performance, and lower rates of anxiety and depression in children. But it’s not just the act of eating together it’s the conversations that happen around the table that truly make a difference.
When we open up space for kids to ask questions, share what they’ve heard, or voice their feelings about the world, we’re not just helping them understand events we’re helping them grow emotionally, socially, and morally.
Why Talking About World Events Matters for Our Kids
Let’s be honest some topics are uncomfortable. Talking about war, political tension, racism, or natural disasters can feel overwhelming. But avoiding them doesn’t protect our children it leaves them to make sense of the world alone.
A 2023 study from the Australian Institute of Family Studies found that children who regularly discussed current events with parents reported higher levels of empathy, greater resilience, and more critical thinking skills. These aren’t just “nice to have” traits these are the very qualities our world needs more of.
When we talk about real-world issues:
- We help our kids build emotional literacy.
- We model respectful dialogue.
- We show them that their questions and their voices matter.
How to Start the Conversation: Using Current Events
Here are three real-world topics you could gently open up around your dinner table this week, with simple ways to engage:
1. Climate and Nature: “Did you see what happened in Queensland with the floods?”
Instead of shielding kids from environmental news, invite their curiosity. Ask:
- “Why do you think floods are becoming more common?”
- “What can we do as a family to care for the Earth?”
- “Have you ever felt scared by news like that?”
This opens the door to both environmental awareness and emotional support.
2. Global Conflict: “There’s a lot in the news about what’s happening in Gaza and Israel. Have you heard anything about it at school?”
Keep it age-appropriate. You don’t need to unpack decades of history. What matters is showing you’re open to talking about hard things. Try:
- “How do you feel when you hear stories like that?”
- “What do you think peace means?”
- “Why do you think it’s important to care about people far away?”
3. Social Justice & Politics: “There’s been a lot of talk about the Voice to Parliament last year. Do you know what that was about?”
This is a powerful opportunity to help our children understand history, culture, and democracy. Ask:
- “What does fairness mean to you?”
- “Why is listening to others’ stories important?”
- “What would you change if you were in charge?”
Make it Practical: Tips for Talking at the Table
- Ask open-ended questions – Skip the “yes/no” and go for “What did you hear?” or “How did that make you feel?”
- Stay curious, not corrective – Let them explore ideas, even if they don’t fully understand. They’re learning.
- Share your thoughts, too – Vulnerability invites connection. You don’t have to have all the answers.
- Keep screens off during dinner – Protect this sacred time to slow down and listen.
- Use stories, not just facts – Kids connect deeply through storytelling. Talk about real people behind the headlines.
Connection is the Antidote to Fear
In a noisy, unpredictable world, the dinner table can be a calm centre. A place where our kids feel seen, safe, and strong enough to face what’s happening around them. Not with fear but with empathy, courage, and the belief that their voice matters.
So tonight, as you pass the potatoes, pass the questions too.
Because the world is talking to our kids let’s make sure we are too.
