Children also react to reports in the media. Russia’s attack on Ukraine on February 24 affected us all. Ukrainians live in our town, and their children attend schools in Bolesławiec. This is the case at Primary School No. 4 in Bolesławiec. Approximately 20 students from Ukraine attend the school. One of them is little Staś from class 2c, for whom his Polish classmate drew a beautiful picture on the day Russia attacked Ukraine. Two countries can be seen on the divided sheet of paper. One is symbolized by the Polish flag, the other by the Ukrainian flag. The drawing is crowned with the words: Let’s stand together!
War in Ukraine. How should we talk about it with children and teenagers?
Information about Russian troops entering Ukrainian territory evokes strong emotions in everyone—students and teachers alike. Addressing this topic in lessons with young people is not easy, but it is very necessary. This is particularly important in classes attended by people of Ukrainian origin.
In a crisis, a natural desire to help other people is awakened in us. Children and teenagers also of course experience these emotions. It is worth recognizing and appreciating them, as well as strengthening these natural impulses to offer support!
What can we do?
- Stay up to date. Find out more. Understand the situation
- Support organizations that help in Ukraine or refugees who have reached Poland
- Verify information; do not fall for fake news. Think critically and do not panic
No less important than supporting Ukraine is acting responsibly in Poland. We must verify all the information about the conflict that reaches us. When analyzing information, ask yourself:
- Who is the author of the information (is it a reliable source), and what is their purpose?
- What (manipulative) techniques were used to attract and hold your attention?
- How might other people interpret this information?
- What facts have been omitted?
- What will happen if I pass the information on?
If you are not sure that information is true, do not forward it. On the first day of the invasion, we could already see what disinformation leads to at gas stations. Although there is no shortage of fuel in Poland, panic-induced limited availability significantly hinders efforts to help refugees.
- Show solidarity and kindness to Ukrainian women and men in your community
- Take part in a peace demonstration and sign a petition against Russia’s aggression toward Ukraine
- Learn about Ukrainian culture and society—read a book, listen to music, or watch a film
- Show solidarity symbolically (a flag, pin, or poster)
- Encourage others to take similar actions
You can find more useful information on the Centre for Citizenship Education website and in the brochure How to Talk to Young People About War.