There is no escaping it. Right now we are all touched by the tremendous pain and suffering our world faces. Millions are out of work. Students cannot attend school. Hospitals are full. 

It is hard to take it all in — especially for children. But as parents, teachers, and caregivers we can use the current events to teach our kids healthy ways to deal with pain and suffering.

Here are five steps for talking with our kids about difficult circumstances in ways that create understanding, empathy, and positive actions.