The hurricane aftermath: 10 ways for parents and caregivers to help children
February 03, 2006
With a disaster like a hurricane, adults and children should expect all kinds of feelings: shock, confusion, sadness, grief, anger, loneliness and hopelessness.
This pamphlet provides tips on beginning the healing and emotional recovery processes.
- Take care of yourself.
- Find something positive in how the child is dealing with the hurricane.
- Encourage the child to talk, write or draw about their feelings.
- Ask the child what he/she needs.
- Be aware of common reactions to trauma.
- Be prepared to deal with physical symptoms like stomach aches and headaches.
- Children like routines.
- Limit the child's exposure to news about the hurricane.
- Provide the child with plenty of time to play.
- Help create a sense of safety.
Download our pamphlet to learn more about how to support children after a hurricane ▸