The Hurricane Aftermath: 10 Ways for Parents and Caregivers to Help Children

From MercyCorps

With a disaster like the 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.

1. Take care of yourself.
2. Find something positive in how the child is dealing with the hurricane.
3. Encourage the child to talk, write or draw about their feelings.
4. Ask the child what he/she needs.
5. Be aware of common reactions to trauma.
6. Be prepared to deal with physical symptoms like stomach aches and headaches.
7. Children like routines.
8. Limit the child’s exposure to news about the hurricane.
9. Provide the child with plenty of time to play.
10. Help create a sense of safety.

CLICK HERE FOR A PDF PAMPHLET 

 

Thursday, November 15th 2012