Helping Young Children After a
Disaster
(http://www.naeyc.org/families/disaster.asp) |
As we watch
continuing coverage of Hurricane Katrina and the related flooding, it is
important to remember that young children may be especially affected by
disasters. Families and others who care for young children need to provide
comfort, reassurance, and stability.
The most
important thing families and other adults can do is make sure children aren't
over-exposed to media coverage of the disaster. More than any other action,
avoiding media coverage will protect children from confusing and disturbing
images.
When young
children witness troubling events, directly or on television, they are likely
to feel afraid and confused. Images of destruction and suffering can cause high
anxiety and even panic. Young children are most fearful when they do not
understand what is happening around them. Their strong feelings and reactions
are natural and should be expected.
Helping children
deal with their reactions to the devastation can be challenging when adults are
struggling with their own feelings. However, we should remember that young
children are very perceptive and will quickly recognize and respond to the fear
and anxiety that adults are experiencing.
The following
strategies can help families and other adults give children emotional support
and show them that they are safe in our care.
Offer
reassurance through physical closeness.
Maintain
structure.
Respond to
children's interest in talking about the disaster.
Offer
experiences that help children release tension.
Give worried
children more time for relaxing, therapeutic experiences such as playing with
sand, water, clay, and play dough.
Provide plenty
of time and opportunities for children to work out their concerns and feelings
through dramatic play. In dramatic play, children can pretend that they are big
and strong to gain control over their trauma and to overcome feelings of
helplessness.
Spend more time
outdoors, at the gym, or in the park so children have opportunities for
physical activity that provides an emotional release.
Watch for
changes in behavior.
Take care of
yourself.
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