How to Explain Something My Daughter Saw on t.v.

I think I would be honest, but broad. Start with making sure that she understands it was a show, people acting, and not something that actually happened, so that you can honestly say that yes, both the little girl and the mommy are fine. Depending on if she seems to need more information, I think it's OK to let her know that what was being acted in the show was bad people being mean, and this does happen sometimes, but there are also good people that will rush to help, and you are sure that good people came and helped the little girl and mommy sometime after you stopped watching.

In today's information age, we can't hide much from our little ones, and they will invent an answer if they aren't given one that makes sense to them. So it's best to give a satisfactory explanation that allows you to frame it all under your own terms. Answer only what the child seems to want to know, and no more.

I know it's sad that we can't keep them completely innocent and sheltered very long, but we can do our best to mitigate all the negative influences they will encounter. Age appropriate knowledge ends up being the best defense.

I would absolutely explain that what Dad was watching wasn't real. She's old enough to understand the difference between pretend and real. At that age I told my girls TV was sort of like a play with people on stage pretending. While they don't watch much, I have always talked to my children about what they see on TV. In this crazy world I think it's really important to teach kids to be media savy. They need to know that commercials are trying to sell them something & not to take everything on the tube literally. If she keeps asking then she's thinking about it and needs a solid answer. Never underestimate their little brains, there's always a lot more going on then we think!

I like what Debbie W. said below. I think you need to answer her because if she's thinking about it this much then she'll invent something worse in her own head and it might scare her. Just remind her that what's on the tv isn't real.

Hi J.,

TV is a very difficult situation and how to explain to a child that young, I feel for you. I would tell her that TV is not a real thing so you don't have to worry or be scared.

C.

tell her nothing happened to them and that they are fine and leave it at that its worked for us God Bless you and your family Danielle mother of 4

Hi, I am new to this sight...and, I have a 7 yera old daughter.

I have not seen this movie but, here goes. The first thing that comes to mind is ...the truth...as in,

The mommy and the girl went home after a long day of acting...for a part in a movie. I would explain that there are many reasons why there are different types of movies...which are...moving pictures...people watch them to learn things, like documentaries, and some for entertainment...and some for exersize. So...you may not be sure about what happened to the characters...yet you are sure, the mommy and the girl are likely spending a fun day together...or, something like this...short and sweet for a three and half year old with an enphisis on "make believe"

Let me know if this sounds at all on a good track.

Cheers,

H.

J.,

The advise you've received is great. I too think you should be honest and tell her that not everything on t.v is true. Because of her age, she might not quite understand yet, but at least you will ease her mind a bit. I always tell my kids..."they are just pretending". =)