How to Talk to Kids About Abortion

Samantha Stephenson shares four tips for discussing this tough topic with our kids.  

Abortion is a grave evil that violates the dignity and sanctity of human life. As Catholic moms, we want to protect our children from this horror and teach them the truth about the value of every person, from conception to natural death. But how do we talk to them about abortion in a way that is appropriate for their age and level of understanding? Here are some tips to help you have this difficult conversation with your kids. 

Start with the BEAUTY of God’s plan for life.

Before you introduce the topic of abortion, make sure your kids have a solid foundation of what the Church teaches about human life. Explain to them that God creates each person in His image and likeness, and that He loves them unconditionally. Tell them that every human being has a soul, a body, and a unique purpose in God’s plan. Show them how to respect, care for, and defend life at all stages, from the unborn to the elderly. Use examples from Scripture, the lives of the saints, and your own family to illustrate the beauty and gift of life. 
 

Follow their lead.

Don’t force the conversation on your kids if they are not ready or interested. Wait for a natural opportunity to bring up the topic, such as when you see a pro-life bumper sticker, a news report, or a pregnant woman. Listen to their questions and answer them honestly and simply, without giving too much detail or graphic information. If they don’t ask anything, you can gently probe their curiosity by asking them what they think or know about abortion. Don’t overwhelm them with facts or arguments; just give them the basic information they need to understand what abortion is and why it is wrong. 
 

Be compassionate and hopeful.

While we should not sugarcoat the reality of abortion, we should take care to communicate God’s infinite mercy. Emphasize that abortion is a sin, but that God is merciful and forgiving to those who repent. Explain that some women choose abortion because they are afraid, confused, or pressured by others, and that they need our prayers and support. Remind your kids that God can bring good out of evil, and that He is working through His Church and His people to end abortion and heal its wounds. Encourage them to get involved in pro-life activities, such as praying the rosary, attending a march, or donating to a pregnancy center. 
 

Seek guidance and resources.

Talking to your kids about abortion can be challenging and stressful, but you don’t have to do it alone. Seek the help of your spouse, your priest, your friends, or other Catholic moms who have gone through the same experience. You can also find helpful books, videos, websites, and organizations that can assist you in educating your kids about abortion. 

You can go through Justice For All’s online training or listen to my podcast episode with Bella O’Neill where she explains how to talk about abortion with compassion. You can also use picture books like Angel in the Waters (we love the video version on FORMED) or Horton Hears a Who! to introduce the concept of the dignity of the unborn to younger kids. 

Talking to your kids about abortion is not easy, but it is necessary and worthwhile. As Catholic moms, we have the privilege and duty to form our children in the faith and to prepare them to face the challenges of the world. By teaching them the truth about abortion, we are not only protecting their innocence, but also empowering them to be witnesses of life and love. 

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Copyright 2025 Samantha Stephenson
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