America’s children have always been asked to do their part for the war effort. In the Cold War, schoolchildren hunkered under their desks for air raid drills. When polio was the enemy, children obeyed parents’ orders to stay inside the house.

Now, the youngest generation is grappling with its own angst. War with Iraq is just around the bend. Saddam’s image is everywhere. America’s on high alert. It’s a cold, cruel, code orange world out there, especially for kids. They are scared. They are resilient. What’s a parent to say or do when what’s appropriate for Sally at age 10, might not be for 5 year-old Sam.

What are your children asking about war with Iraq? About homeland security? What are you telling them? Can you make them feel safe without triggering their BS detectors?

Guests:

Dr. Ned Hallowell, psychiatrist and author of the new book “The Childhood Roots of Adult Happiness;” Dr. Ian Miller, clinical psychologist

Lizette Alexander, supervisor of psychological services for Hillsborough County school district in Florida