By: Dr. Tiffany M. Ortiz, Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Many parents are noticing that children today seem more worried, fearful, or emotionally overwhelmed and dysregulated. Through social media, news, and conversations online, children are being exposed to frightening images and stories about violence, immigration fears, discrimination, and domestic and global unrest, often without the emotional tools to understand what they see.
For Latino and immigrant families, these stories can feel especially close to home. Even when events are not happening directly to our families, children may absorb fear and uncertainty simply by watching, listening, and sensing the stress around them. This shared emotional weight is known as collective trauma, and it can impact children’s emotional well-being.
Children’s brains are still developing, and they rely on adults to help them make sense of the world. Children may show this stress in many ways: increased anxiety, trouble sleeping, irritability, withdrawal, stomachaches, or big emotional reactions that seem sudden or confusing. At this time, children do not need perfect answers or explanations. They need connection.
How Connection Helps Heal
The relationship between a child and caregiver is one of the strongest protective factors for emotional health. When parents slow down, listen, and stay emotionally present, children feel safer, even when the world feels unpredictable.
Start by opening gentle conversations:
- “What have you been hearing or seeing lately?”
- “How did that make you feel?”
Listen without rushing to fix and hold space for reflection. Validate their feelings: “That sounds scary,” or “It makes sense to feel worried when you see that.” Reassure them with calm, regulated, and honest messages: “Right now, you are safe. I’m here with you.”
Supporting Children Through Media Exposure
Set loving boundaries around news and social media. Children do not need constant exposure to distressing content. Watch together when possible, ask questions about what they’re seeing, and limit screen time, especially before bed. When children feel guided rather than restricted, trust grows.
Teach and practice simple coping tools like deep breathing, drawing, engaging in outdoor activities, cooking, movement, prayer, or spending time together as a family. Cultural traditions, storytelling, and community connection remind children they are not alone.
You Are Not Alone
At El Centro de Amistad, we believe healing happens through relationships. If your child is struggling, support is available. Asking for help is an act of love and a powerful step toward strengthening your family’s emotional well-being.
Together, through connection and care, we can help our children feel safer, stronger, and more hopeful.
