Will I get kidnapped?

Growing up in America, I remember seeing photos of missing children on milk cartons. It deeply frightened me—I couldn’t understand how a child could simply disappear. Now, living in Israel in the aftermath of October 7, that same fear has returned in a new, heartbreaking way. Everywhere we look, there are posters of missing kids, teens, and adults—faces of people taken from their homes. This unsettling reality has become a constant presence on our streets and walls, as their eyes seem to look at us, silently asking to be found, to come home.

Today, a young girl came to me, speaking of her fear. She told me how she struggles to fall asleep, her mind gripped by the terrifying thought that she, too, might be kidnapped. When I gently asked her where she had heard this, she replied, “Everywhere I look, I see the pictures.” Her words struck a painful chord in me, as her fear now reflects the reality that so many Israeli children are facing—a reality that confronts them with things they should never have to face.

In this surreal and painful environment, I tried to help her find a sense of safety. I asked her to imagine her own place of comfort—a space where her dog is by her side, where she feels a sense of protection. Together, we created what I call a “safety dance,” a gentle movement and visualization practice that helps to ground her, forming an imaginary container around her filled with boundaries, prayers, and protective symbols. I wanted her to know that, even amidst her fear, she holds the power within herself to find a place of calm.

These unfortunate circumstances have profoundly impacted our children’s sense of security and innocence. Yet, I hold onto the hope that, step by step, we can help them regain that sense of safety. As parents, teachers, and guardians, we have the power to make a difference. Here are some ways to support our children in these challenging times:

1. Establish a predictable routine as much as possible to create a sense of stability.
2. Discuss and develop strategies they can use when they feel unsafe, empowering them with practical tools.
3. Spend quality time with them—talk, play, and engage in activities together to reinforce connection and support.
4. When things become overwhelming, consider reaching out for professional help to provide additional support.

Each small step, each moment of peace, can help the children overcome even such unimaginable fears.