Education Ministry issues guidance on discussing the return of deceased hostages with children

The Education Ministry says that children who are exposed to the news of the four deceased hostages said to have been returned to Israel today may be preoccupied with the topic.

The ministry recommends approaching the subject according to the child’s age, developmental stage, and proximity to the event while minimizing exposure to news and distressing visuals as much as possible.

Educational staff members are recommended not to initiate discussions on the topic in kindergartens and elementary schools. However, in classrooms where the subject does arise, discussions will be conducted according to professional guidelines.

Parents are encouraged to reassure children that they can share any concerns or emotions, reminding them that adults, security forces, and others are working to ensure their safety. If children mention that the hostages are deceased, adults can explain that the hostages died in captivity. Finally, adults can convey a message of hope and resilience, mentioning how efforts continue to secure the release of all remaining hostages.

Parents are invited to contact school staff or the ministry’s hotline, *6312, for additional support and information.