Lately, the media has been reporting natural disasters in many places around the world. A cyclone that destroyed many in Myanmar, an earthquake in China. It is unsettling to watch grief stricken parents waiting to hear news of their children trapped in a school during the quake.
Headlines read, "China stops all activities - a day of mourning the dead." Although we may not have our children sitting in front of the television watching the constant updates on these disasters, they are still exposed. Sometimes our kids hear just enough information to frighten them more than necessary.
Sometimes children experience anxiety and fear about their own safety when they hear about tragedies. Things to look for in your children may include: Unwillingness to try new things. Reluctance to sleep alone. Fear of the dark. Fear of storms and weather conditions. Clinginess to parents, not wanting to be left alone or with a caregiver. Older children often fear that something will happen to their parents while they are away. Often parents can provide support and these fears will lessen. sometimes children begin to develop anxiety that will require professional help.
So as parents what are we to do? Here are some suggestions for helping our children as they hear about these events.
Maintain your routine. Children feel safe when they can predict what is going to happen.
Avoid over exposure to the media. sometimes the repeated reports of disaster increase the fear.Watch the news together and answer questions age appropriately.Encourage empathy for the victims and allow your child to feel sad.
Let your child become involved in the effort. Together gather supplies or volunteer your time to organizations that are helping the victims of these disasters.
Guide your children through these difficult situations let them know that you are there for them - to provide support and comfort. Communicate with your child to let them know what you do when you feel frightened or sad. Teach coping skills and share your feelings together.
