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Helping Children Cope In A Crisis
 

 
Daily Bread
It is good to praise the LORD and make music.
Psalm 92:1
Children are especially vulnerable during tragic events

In these uncertain times marked by terrorist attacks, natural disasters and other life-threatening crises, emotional scars left on those involved and those who watch the events unfold in the news media can be severe.

Children are especially vulnerable during tragic events because they are less likely than adults to understand the situation. But how do you begin to prepare an innocent child for a crisis?

“Children react to crisis in very individual ways,” said Judy Bookman of CONCERN, Baptist Memorial Health Care’s Employee Assistance Program. “Some reactions may appear immediately, while others may take weeks or months to appear. Common reactions include fear, anxiety, sleep disturbances, problems concentrating, sadness, acting out and overreaction to minor stress.”

The Children’s Defense Fund, a national child advocacy group, offers the following advice to parents on helping children cope:

  • Continuously reassure children that you will help to keep them safe.
  • Turn off the television. Overexposure to the news media can be traumatizing. If older children are watching the news, be sure to watch with them.
  • Be aware that a child's age will affect his or her response. Adolescents in particular may be hard hit by these kinds of events. Obtaining counseling or assistance from a member of the clergy for a child or adolescent soon after a disaster may reduce long-term effects.
  • Calmly express your emotions—remember that a composed demeanor will provide a greater sense of security for a child.
  • Give children extra time and attention now, and plan to spend more time with them in the coming months.
  • Let children ask questions, talk about what happened and express their feelings.
  • Play with children who can't talk yet to help them work out their fears and respond to the atmosphere around them.
  • Keep regular schedules for daily activities, such as eating, playing and bedtime, to help restore a sense of security and normalcy.
  • Consider what you and your child can do to help the victims of tragedy. Children are better able to regain their sense of power and security if they feel they can make a difference in some way.

“A parent’s response to children in times of crisis can either ease or hinder their recovery,” Bookman said. “Parents can help children cope by encouraging them to express their emotions about traumatic events and providing them with as much consistency as possible. Children will adjust to change based upon the actions and support they receive from their caregivers.”

For more information about preparing your family to deal with a crisis situation, please talk with your family physician or church counselor.

Published: September 29, 2005
Source: Judy Bookman of CONCERN:EAP, Baptist Memorial Health Care’s Employee Assistance Program


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