Talk��in��g To You��r Ch��ild A��bou��t Nat��u��r��al Disas��t��er��s When a natural disaster such as the devastatin���� �������������������� ���������� that recently hit�� �������� �������� strikes, the images and stories that your child sees and hears may cause some fear and worry, leading them to ask questions. Do you know how to answer those questions in a way that will ease their fears? Here are ���������� ���������� ������ ���������� ������������ �������� ������������ ������ �������� ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ Answer all of their questions. Children fear what they do not understand, so simply explaining what has happened is the first step in lessening their fears. Make sure you explain things in a calm manner and in terms your child can easily understand. Let them know that their questions and concerns are valid and important to you. ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� Too much detail may frighten a very young child, while school-age children may actually benefit from more detailed de-scriptions. Be honest in your answers. Children will ultimately discover the truth and may come to distrust your reassurances in the future if you are not up front with them. Children may assume that the disaster has occurred close to their home and fear for their own safety and the safety of their loved ones. Make sure they realize that they are safe; use a map or a globe if you think your child will understand. Limit media exposure. The extensive media coverage of disasters is intended for an adult audience and may not be suitable for young children. Do your best to shield your child from graphic images. Photos of destruction, injury, and even death are commonplace in media coverage of natural disasters. Remember that for a young child, the image of a destroyed home is frightening enough. Watch news stories and commentaries with your children so that you can provide the explanations and reassurances they need to feel safe. Maintain daily routines. The stability and predictability of a routine is very important to children. Maintaining a familiar daily schedule is comforting, especially when a child has just seen how un-predictable the world can be at times. Give lots of hugs; physical comforts provide a feeling of safety. Make sure children are getting adequate sleep, exercise, and nutrition. Anxiety can take a toll on the body, so pay attention to both their emotional and physical well-being. Get involved! Children may want to help those affected by the disaster. Knowing that they can team up with people all over the world to help those in need can be really comforting and empowering for children. Contact a local or national organization to see how children can help. There are many ways they can contribute to relief efforts. Sources: ���� Parent Central Express, January 2010, National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies ���� Talking to Children about Earthquakes and other Natural Disasters by David Fassler, M.D., American Academy of�� Child & Adolescent Psychiatry PO Box 55930 Little Rock, AR 72215-5930 1-800-305-7322 www.SouthernEarlyChildhood.org
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