World Autism Awareness Day – Babies in Times of War

In recent days of war, we observed a group of typically developing toddlers, aged one and a half to two, who spent several hours each day in a shelter in the turbulent north.

Watching them made it clear just how much prolonged stress—like what we are all experiencing now—affects even very young children, showing up through intensified behaviors. We saw one toddler curl up in a corner, clutching a teddy bear and refusing to join play. Another clung to a familiar caregiver and wouldn’t leave her arms. A third hit and cried. One toddler had bowel movements far more frequently than usual.

Yes, around age two, resistance is a normal part of development. But here, the intensity was greater than usual. The quiet children—the ones who withdrew, who reached out less to adults—were especially concerning.

Babies perceive and understand reality differently from us. They experience the world through their senses—what they see, hear, and feel in their bodies. They organize these experiences through their relationship with a primary caregiver. A parent mediates the world for them—helping “translate” what’s happening, soothing them when they’re frightened, explaining through voice and touch, and creating a sense that the world is understandable and safe. When parental responses are available, attuned, and consistent, the baby feels held, secure, and able to calm down.

But there are times—like now—when we, as adults, are also struggling. Reality can feel confusing, overwhelming, and stressful. In such moments, it becomes harder to stay emotionally available, to contain, and to help the baby make sense of what’s happening. And the baby, who depends on us, senses the tension and confusion. They may not understand reality, but they do experience us—how we hold them, how we breathe, how tense we are. Sometimes they are also moved suddenly between places, exposed to loud noises, and enter a state of ongoing alertness.

For babies with heightened sensitivity, who process stimuli more intensely, the effects may be even stronger. This can show up as disruptions in sleep, eating difficulties, prolonged crying, restlessness, or even apathy.

Exposure to a wartime environment can also affect the bond between parent and baby. Naturally, stress, helplessness, and even anxiety arise, which can impact our ability to be present and stable for our child.

So what can we do within all this?

Use the simplest, age-appropriate words: “There are loud noises outside, and I’m keeping you safe,” “That sound is unpleasant, I’m here with you.” Rely on touch—hugging, gentle stroking, physical closeness. Andremember that even quiet presence is deeply meaningful.

In such a complex time, supporting the parent is just as important. When adults receive emotional support, they are better able to hold, soothe, and support their babies.

And above all—be compassionate with ourselves. We don’t need to be perfect parents, just attentive ones who try, make mistakes, and return to be attuned.

May we all get through this safely.

The Mifne Team