October 2025

Sometimes as kids you hear about things happening around you and you start to feel scared because you can’t control so many things around you. It can feel overwhelming when you feel this way and sometimes you don’t know what to do. One thing you can always do is find a way to help someone else.

Humans are inherently social beings. From early tribal societies to modern neighborhoods and online groups, our well-being has always been tied to our connections with others. A strong sense of community — the feeling that you belong to a supportive network of people who share mutual care and understanding — plays a crucial role in maintaining good mental health.

I imagine your children are asking questions about what’s going on in the news or in the city. If they’re anything like mine, they pick up on every little thing you say or what they’re hearing at school. They might be asking about what ICE is, or wondering even why everybody seems more tense. They might not be able to put their finger on it, but children can often perceptively know when something is going on. 

In our culture, “independence” is often held up as the ultimate goal of successful parenting. We want to raise self-sufficient, resilient children who can handle anything the world throws at them. But in our quest for independence, are we accidentally teaching our children to be alone?