Charity Parentline Plus which has offices in Eastleigh, has noticed an increase in calls regarding the war in Iraq. In the weeks running up to the war, the 24-hour helpline has had an influx of calls from parents who are worried about how to talk to their children if they ask questions about the war. Parentline Plus has now put together a number of pointers to help parents or carers who come up against any difficult situations.

* Find out what your child already knows. Your main instinct will probably be to try and protect them, but you may find that they know more than you think. Encourage them to ask questions, and find out what they are worried about. In this way you will avoid frightening them by raising an issue they may not have considered.

* Try not to alarm your children or over load them with too much information. Ensure any information you do give them is age-appropriate: younger children will be thinking about the conflict in much simpler terms than older children.

* Try to contain your own anxiety. Your children will be taking leads from you, and will pick up on any fears you are displaying. If you are feeling anxious, talk to a friend or relative, or call Parentline Plus on 0808 800 2222. Being able to discuss your fears with another adult may make them feel more manageable.

* Children may assume the war will put them directly in danger. Reassure them that this is highly unlikely, and that any weapons Iraq may have would not be able to reach the UK. If they ask about the risk of terrorist attack, be honest. Say that this is a risk, but that their chances of being involved, even if an attack does occur, are minimal.