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children need when disaster strikes As the horrific images of the catastrophic devastation in New York City and Washington flooded the television screens and newspapers across the nation to unite us in grief and anger, it is critical that we are mindful of our children's much different reactions. The following guidelines can assist caregivers as they help children through a tragic event. - Any disaster, especially a terrorist attack, is frightening to children and adults alike. It is important to acknowledge the frightening aspects of it with children. Falsely minimizing the danger will not reassure, but a calm demeanor will provide a sense of safety. - Children and teens look to adults' reactions to disaster to guide them in their thinking and response. Along with appropriate angry vows of justice and retribution on those who were responsible should also be a focus on helping those most suffering: the grieving families, the exhausted volunteers through community and religious responses (e.g. food gathering, etc.) Parents can support their children by allowing them to express feelings about the recent disaster, and by letting them know that it is normal to feel upset. Reassure them: tell them you love them and will take care of them. Be available and give them extra time and attention, not only for talks related to the disaster, but for other conversations, or just hanging out. - Parents should know that a child's age will affect how he or she responds to disaster. For example, a four-year-old may show concern by wanting to sleep in the parent's bed, an eight-year-old by missing school (perhaps be feeling or becoming ill) and a teenager by arguing more. - Parents need to monitor their children's exposure to coverage by the media. Viewing or listening to graphic news may cause further trauma and/or desensitize a young person to violent acts and their consequences. - It is also important to help youth process whatever news they do receive of the disaster. A local young person may feel extremely vulnerable upon hearing about the catastrophe in New York City. These children should be encouraged to express their fears, and then gently, but firmly remind them that they themselves are currently quite safe. - Children's and parents' reactions to a disaster may continue for a long time after the event itself, and may be upsetting even years later. Obtaining counseling may be needed and help reduce the long-term negative effects. - Replaying the disaster with available toys may be one way younger children can develop a sense of mastery and minimize their anxiety. This is similar to an adult retelling his/her experience.
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