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Helping Your Child Cope With Disaster

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The intense anxiety and fear that often follow a disaster or other traumatic event can be especially troubling for children. Below are suggestions on how you can help your children following a trauma:

• Allow children to express their feelings about what has happened. This helps reduce their confusion and anxiety related to the trauma. Likewise, share your feelings with them, keeping in mind the age of the child. Young children should not be expected to handle intense, adult feelings.
• Reassure children that they are safe and that they are loved. Remember the importance of touch. Physical affection is very comforting to children who have experienced a trauma.
  
• Be honest with children about what has occurred and provide facts about what happened. Remember to be age appropriate.
  
• Help children return to as normal a routine as possible. Keep regular schedules for activities such as eating, playing and going to bed to help restore a sense of security and normalcy. 
  
• Spend extra time with your child. Do something fun or relaxing for both of you.
  
• Praise and recognize responsible behavior. Reassure your child that their feelings are normal in response to an abnormal situation.
  
• Review family safety and communication procedures. This helps children feel prepared if an emergency situation occurs.
  
• Talk with teachers, baby-sitters or daycare providers. Inform them about your child's situation and coping style and listen to their feedback as well.
  
• Spot warning signs. Watch for behavioral changes in your children, such as sleep disturbances, fatigue, increased "clinginess," disobedience, social withdrawal, or persistent fears related to the traumatic event. If your child exhibits these symptoms or any other unusual behavior, consult with a health professional.

Final thought for parents
In the face of a disaster or traumatic event, do your best to display positive coping skills. Children are very sensitive to the reactions of their parents and the people around them. If you are exhibiting a lot of anxiety, your stress will soon be absorbed by your child. While it is completely appropriate to show grief or concern, remaining as calm as possible will help your children do so, as well.