I depends on age as to if the child will understand your explanation, personally I cover my arms and scars when I see children because I feel its best not to expose them to the concept of self harm. I would do as Jodie said and ask the parents what they would prefer.
Some things I would be prepared to say would be, for example, 'When I have been poorly l I've gotten hurt, but I am better now' and give a bit of reassurance.
It depends on the child's understanding and maturity, some 11-12 year olds would guess it was self inflicted or ask a lot of questions about how it happened and in honesty if they already know, lying wont work, it will make them wonder more and be more interested. Again telling the truth would be up to the parents, but you would possibly say something like 'When I wasn't very well I hurt myself, but I am getting help and support now and I am feeling much better'. With a 2-4 year old however they may only understand 'I had a 'hurtie/ouchie' but its all better now'.
Considering they are 8 and 10 I would discuss it with their parents but be prepared that a watered down version of the truth might be decided on the best course of action. Kids are not stupid and understand a lot more than you think at 10, but it depends on how emotionally mature they are as to what you'd actually say. The parents will have a better idea of what the children will understand and cope with.
Hope you have an awesome holiday!
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