Children are particularly prone to post-disaster stress; they can feel frightened, confused and insecure, and that’s mainly because they haven’t had as many experiences – positive or negative – as we adults have. But there are some things you can do to help your children cope with disaster, whether you’ve been through fire, flooding, or wind and storm damage.
Tips to Help Your Kids Cope With Post-Disaster Stress
Every child is different, and each copes with post-disaster stress in his or her own way. That’s based on personality type, age and a number of other factors. However, these tips can help you help your little ones through this difficult time:
- Encourage your kids to help you update your family disaster plan.
- Encourage your kids to talk about how they feel after the disaster.
- Give plenty of hugs and physical reassurance. Cuddles help most children feel more secure, just like they do for adults.
- Praise and recognize your child’s accomplishments and responsible behaviors.
- Provide factual information about the disaster if your child acts, and share your current plans in an age-appropriate way.
- Spend more time with your kids when they’re sleepy, stressed or over-stimulated.
- Try to stick to routines as much as you can; if you can pick up old routines, like walking out the door at 7:30 for school or attending sports practice on the same days every week, you should.
Let Us Handle Your Home; You Take Care of Your Family
If you’ve been subject to a disaster – man-made or natural – we can help you pick up the pieces. Let us worry about the technical side of things, such as fire and smoke damage repair and reconstruction services, so you’re free to focus on yourself and your family.
Call us at 734-352-9183 or contact us online so we can schedule an appointment to analyze the situation and help you get back on track.
