Expert answers: a child psychologist helps you field the tough questions your students may ask.

• Author: Brodkin, Adele M.
• Position: About the Iraq War

Depending on a student's personal circumstances, war may feel remote or terrifyingly close to home. And while some are likely to turn to their teachers for much-needed reassurance as well as a clearer understanding of events, others may not be eager to hear more about the war. For these reasons, it is a good idea to follow your students' lead, answering questions when they arise without prolonging or forcing discussion. It's also wise to be prepared for some potentially difficult questions, like those I've tried to anticipate here, from children in grades 6 and up. No matter what age group you teach, approach students' questions about war with honesty, sensitivity, and reassurance.

Why have other countries--and some people in the U.S.--disagreed with the President about the need to go to war?

Teachers have an opportunity to build a lively class discussion around this question. Turn it back to the group, asking students to consider the positions of various countries. What reasons might have motivated France or Russia, for example, to oppose the war? With this approach, you provide an even broader lesson about the importance, in the process of conflict resolution, of trying to understand the perspectives and circumstances of others.

The issue of war protests at home, likewise, presents an opportunity for fruitful discussion. Emphasize that one of the things we cherish in a democracy is everyone's right to express opinions freely, even if they disagree with the government.

Will there be more terrorist attacks here at home because of the war?

Most children in grade 6 and above understand that even very smart adults have limited knowledge about the future. They will accept the fact that no one knows whether there will be terrorist attacks. Acknowledge that there are some who believe that retaliatory incidents are likely; but there are also others who believe that drawing this "line in the sand" for Iraq will help prevent future attacks on the U.S. A lively class discussion might ensue, but don't lose sight of the emotionally loaded quality of this question. The underlying need is for reassurance about being safe. Stress that our government and our local authorities are doing everything within their power to protect us from terrorism.

Are our troops in danger? Will Iraq use chemical or biological weapons against them?

As always, be honest but reassuring. Be especially sensitive to the possibility that some of your students may have a relative or...