Continuously
reassure your children that you will help to keep them safe.
Turn off the
TV. Overexposure to the media can be traumatizing.
If your older children are watching the news, be sure to watch
with them.
Be aware that your
child's age will affect his or her response. Adolescents in
particular may be hard hit by these kinds of events. Obtaining
counseling for a child or adolescent soon after a disaster may
reduce long-term effects.
Calmly express
your emotions--remember that a composed demeanor will provide
a greater sense of security for your child.
Give your children
extra time and attention and plan to spend more time with your
children in the following months.
Let your children
ask questions, talk about what happened, and express their
feelings.
Play with children
who can't talk yet to help them work out their fears and
respond to the atmosphere around them.
Keep regular
schedules for activities such as eating, playing and going to
bed to help restore a sense of security and normalcy.
