Parents can help children understand 9/11
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Haley Horstman, a professor at the University of Missouri, led a research team that examined how parents discuss the September 11, 2001 attacks with their children.
The study found that many conversations begin when children ask questions or react to media coverage of the event. Horstman’s team determined that proactively bringing up 9/11 signals to children that open discussion is welcome, especially since they may encounter information at school or through other sources without guidance.
Parents should tailor their conversations to their child’s age, maturity, and emotional capacity. The research showed parents often shield children from graphic images and complex issues, adjusting the level of detail as the child grows. Balancing openness with protection is key, as very young children can become overwhelmed by upsetting details. The University of Missouri study also highlighted the importance of parents sharing their own experiences of 9/11.
These personal stories help children connect with history and understand the event through their parents’ lived experiences, and also provide opportunities for ethnic and religious minority parents to share unique perspectives. Researchers found that children generally want to hear these stories to connect with their family history and learn about the past.
