Tips for Dealing with Trauma
Children base their reactions in part on what they see from the adults around them. When parents and caregivers deal with a disaster calmly and confidently, they can provide the best support for their children. The better prepared parents are, the more reassuring they are to others around them, especially children.
Self care and preparation are critical for parents and caregivers. The more prepared, rested, and relaxed they are, the better they can respond to unexpected events and the more they can make decisions that will be in the best interest of those for whom they are responsible.
Children’s reactions depend on their age and are affected by how close they are to an event, their level of exposure to it through TV, and how they see their parents and caregivers reacting.
(source: CDC)
Please see these links for resources to help you speak with your children about traumatic events or disasters.
Coping with a Traumatic Event (from the CDC)
Resources for Families in Crisis (from Project HOPE)
Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers (NASP)