Caring for children in an emergency

Disasters are caused by both forces of nature and people using force.  Such events are frightening for adults and can be equally traumatic for our children.  Feelings of anxiety, confusion, and fear are all normal reactions.  However, if children are allowed to have these feelings for a long period of time, it can have devastating long-term emotional effects on their health and wellbeing. 

While adults can actively seek help, children depend on the adults in their lives to get them the assistance they need.

Here are some things for you to keep in mind as you talk to your children after a disaster.

The following stress reactions can be seen in children and adolescents following disasters:

• Crying / Whining

• Thumb-Sucking

• Bad Dreams / Nightmares

• Regressive Behaviors

• Trouble Concentrating

• Refusal to go to School

• Loss of Appetite

• Excessive Fears (Darkness)

• Bedwetting

• Insomnia

• Clinging / Fear of Being Alone

• Fighting

• Withdrawal / Isolation

• Physical Complaints (Stomachaches / Headaches)

• Exaggerated Startle Response

When you are talking to a child about scary and stressful events, remember to do the following:

• Acknowledge the frightening parts of such events.  Falsely minimizing the danger will not end a child’s concern.

• Be available and let your child ask questions.  You may need to repeat information that is difficult to understand.

• Respect feelings, thoughts and reactions, even if they are different from your own.

• Listen and focus your attention when talking to your child about how he or she is feeling.

• Learn the facts.  Rumors and false information are often spread and can lead children to worry more.

• Reassure your children that you and other adults are doing everything possible to make sure that people are safe, secure and free from harm. 

• Communicate the events in words that a child can understand.

• Support children who may not want to talk about their feelings or fears and help them express how they are feeling through drawing, playing, or writing.

To help your child heal, remember that:

• Children are aware of their parents’ worries most of the time and can sense your anxiety – stay calm.
• It’s okay for parents and other adults to share some of their feelings and concerns with children.  When sharing your feelings, talk about some things you do to help yourself feel better.
• If you are completely overwhelmed, ask for help.  Other adults can help support you as well as your child during times of crisis.
• Share tips for ways you deal with feelings.
• Monitor TV watching.  Too much exposure to graphic or violent content or subject matter can increase a child’s level of anxiety or concern.
• Get back to your family routine as soon as possible.  Familiar things and routines can be reassuring and comforting.
• Reassure, validate, and comfort.
• Consider how you and your children can help others.

Adopted from: “The Handbook of Frequently Asked Questions Following Traumatic Events: Violence, Disasters, or Terrorism.” The International Center to Heal our Children.  Children’s National Medical Center.  Washington, DC.  2002

Emergency Readiness Information

• Individual and Family Preparedness
• Animals in Emergencies
• Preparedness for Persons with Special Needs
• Caring for Children in an Emergency
• Business Preparedness
• School and Daycare Preparedness
• I.C.E. - In Case of Emergency

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