Israeli Children Seek Normalcy After Years of Conflict
As Israel reaches a significant milestone—1,000 days since the tragic Hamas-led attacks on October 7—many children are now beginning their summer vacations. However, these kids carry the emotional scars of ongoing conflict, adapting to life in a society shaped by nearly three years of turmoil and rising antisemitism.
Lilach, a mother from Kibbutz Eilon, just over a mile from the Lebanese border, expressed her hopes for her children, Yuval, Amit, and Yoni, saying she wishes they could enjoy a carefree summer. “During the war, we often worried about going out. They barely attended school and spent too much time indoors,” she said. “I just want them to have fun, spend time with friends, and feel like kids again.”
Significant Developments in Security
While families try to reclaim a sense of normality, Israel has been taking steps to address security concerns. Recently, the nation announced it had eliminated one of the key figures responsible for the attacks on October 7.
Lilach noted how, since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, her kids have had only one uninterrupted school year. “Every time they tried to settle back into a routine, something else would disrupt it,” she said, highlighting the difficulties faced by her daughter Amit, who managed to graduate high school despite the odds.
Anat, another mother from Kibbutz Yiftah near the Lebanese border, shared her family’s journey of switching schools three times before returning home in February 2025. “Each disruption made it harder for my children to connect and learn,” she stated.
Despite these challenges, Anat remains hopeful about summer traveling plans. “We focus on positivity. We don’t discuss hatred,” she said. Her children, she believes, have shown resilience, growing up faster due to their experiences.
Broader Impacts of the Conflict
Psychologists in Israel are noting alarming signs of trauma in children. Dr. Nufar Bar Lipshatz from Clalit Health Services reported that thousands of children have been recognized as victims of violence, with many displaying clear signs of emotional distress. “Children express their trauma in different ways—through behaviors like reenacting past fears during play,” she explained.
As families plan summer activities, mental health professionals warn that long breaks from routine may lead to increased anxiety. “Children derive a sense of safety from stability and routine,” Dr. Bar Lipshatz noted, emphasizing the need for strategies to help both kids and parents cope with ongoing stress.
To support students over the summer, the Israeli Ministry of Education will continue providing educational programs along with emotional support services, aiming to aid about 1.12 million students across the country.
Meaningful Summer Camps for Healing
In an effort to rebuild connections and offer therapeutic experiences, children affected by the conflict can also attend summer camps run by organizations like OneFamily, which specifically supports families experiencing loss due to terrorism. This year, over 400 children who have lost family members to violence will take part in a camp designed to foster resilience and healing.
Activities at the camp include swimming, sports, and therapeutic dialogue circles, providing a safe space for children to share their experiences through fun and connection. “When children come together, they often find strength in shared experiences,” said Chantal Belzberg, the organization’s founding director.
As Israel navigates this challenging moment, families and communities strive for resilience, focusing on healing and moving forward against the backdrop of ongoing strife.
