For parents
Questions kids may have but don’t know how to ask.
Some children may not directly ask whether their parent is safe, whether something bad will happen, or why their parent seems different after work.
These are a few of the questions they do ask, and ways a parent might answer. They can help you recognize the opportunity to open the conversation.
When a child asks
“Are you going to be okay?”
You could respond
“I understand why you might wonder about that. I do my best to stay safe, and there are people who help me when work is hard. You can always talk to me about your worries.”
When a child asks
“Why don’t you talk when you get home?”
You could respond
“Sometimes I need a little time to relax after work. It’s not because of anything you did. I love spending time with you, and we can talk about how we’re both doing.”
When a child asks
“Did something bad happen at work?”
You could respond
“Sometimes my job can be difficult. If there’s something you need to know, I’ll explain it in a way that makes sense for you. You can always ask me questions.”
When a child asks
“Why can’t you come to my game or event?”
You could respond
“I know it’s disappointing when work means I can’t be there. I care about what’s important to you. Let’s find another way to celebrate or spend time together.”
These are examples, not scripts parents must follow. The best response depends on the child’s age, question, and circumstances.
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The Bridge Corp, doing business as First Responders’ Bridge, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. EIN 82-5475103. Westerville, Ohio.