Discussion: How to Talk to Children About War?

On January 16, a discussion aimed at teachers, parents, and all interested parties will take place at the Tartu Art Museum on the topic of how to talk to children about war.

The discussion will be led by children’s book author Hanna Davydova, who wrote “Kukupai and Kukurudza,” and psychologist-family therapist Julia Laanemets. The conversation takes place in English and Estonian. To participate, this registration form must be completed by January 14 at the latest, and an exhibition ticket must be purchased on-site. The places are limited.

During the conversation, the book “Kukupai and Kukurudza” will also be introduced. It tells the story of a sensitive and quiet girl named Hanna and her friendship with the clever and kind Mattias. Hanna’s family fled from the war in Ukraine to Estonia, and her Estonian friend helps her adapt to her new life. Throughout their journey, both learn a lot about each other’s homeland, people, and language.

The author of the text and images, Hanna Davydova, is a trained special educator and also practices art therapy. She arrived in Estonia among the first wave of war refugees from Ukraine. Through the main character, she describes the emotional world and adjustment difficulties of young refugees. The book, available in both Estonian and Ukrainian, is intended for children aged 9 to 12, as well as their teachers and parents. It can be used to facilitate discussions among different groups of children, supporting conversations on complex topics such as war, loneliness, finding friends, and valuing differences.

Julia Laanemets works daily with families in her private practice and trains parents under the positive parenting program “Incredible Years.” She has also worked in the education system, helping teachers and parents find solutions that support children’s development, health, and well-being.

The meeting is part of the public program of the exhibition “The Secrets of the Leaning Building.” The exhibition is the main event of the art education project “Creative Connections” and is part of the programme of the European Capital of Culture Tartu 2024.