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Friday September 14, 2001

How parents can help their kids cope with disaster

Even when children have not experienced a catastrophe firsthand, they may become anxious, confused or frightened. Children rely
*Children under 5 are not able to sort reality from fantasy and are concrete thinkers. The images on television news are too int

*Keep routines as normal as possible. Children rely on routines and will become more anxious if they become interrupted.

*Feelings of fear are healthy and natural for adults and children. Children are afraid of recurrence, injury or death. They are afraid of being separated from their family and of being left alone.

*As an adult, you need to manage your anxieties and anger to provide stability for your children. Use other adults for support, and monitor what you discuss with your children. Coordinate your approach with other parents.

*Discuss and explain the disaster as well as you are able. Encourage children to express their feelings and listen without passing judgment. However, do not force discussion of the events. Reassure children and adolescents that it is normal to feel upset after something bad happens and that normalcy will return.

*Young children may experience regressive behaviors, such as sleep problems, toilet issues, physical complaints, clinging and separation anxiety. These are normal behaviors that are reactions to their anxiety, and parents' acceptance will reassure them and shorten the duration.

*Specific, irrational fears may develop after children have been exposed to a disaster. Younger children may become afraid of the dark or of monsters; older children may be afraid to go to school. It is important for parents to listen and to provide reassurance. Develop strategies with your children to help them cope with their fears and have some control over them.

*Seek help from a professional if you have concerns about your children or questions regarding how to manage their feelings and behaviors.

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