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Unfortunately, the children we care for may face a traumatic event in their life. The following are resources gathered by the Penn State Better Kid Care Program that may help in responding appropriately to children and families who have faced devastating and challenging circumstances.
There are both commonalities and unique features in every disaster as it affects families. This fact sheet uses the research on children affected by political violence as a guide to how children may be affected by Hurricane Katrina and to provide recommendations to support children and families.
The effects of a disaster, terrorist attack, or other public health emergency can be long-lasting, and the resulting trauma can reverberate even with those not directly affected by the disaster. This page provides general strategies for promoting mental health and resilience. Also visit http://emergency.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/general.asp
Natural disasters, such as hurricanes and fires and traumatic events, such as acts of terrorism, violence, and war can be frightening for adults, but they are especially traumatic for children. Being prepared for natural disasters and knowing how to handle the aftermath of disasters and stressful events is essential.
The past traumatic events in our country -- terrorism, the horrific disaster in our Gulf states with Hurricane Katrina, and other natural disasters -- have prompted many calls from professionals, knowing that Family Information Services has covered issues related to dealing with crises, trauma and death, especially talking to children, in past issues of our monthly “practitioner's journal” which has now been compiled into the Parent & Family Educator's Resource Library.
In the wake of any kind of emergency or disaster - large or small - children may feel anxious about their own safety and security. The resources provided below are tools for helping children and families cope with any tragedy. For more information on disaster policy and background.
Disasters can leave children feeling frightened, confused, and insecure. Whether a child has personally experienced trauma, has merely seen the event on television, or has heard it discussed by adults, it is important for parents and teachers to be informed and ready to help if reactions to stress begin to occur.
Practical tips from Karen Stephens for parents and caregivers for helping children cope with tragedy and disaster – Also, view these sites:
http://www.ces.purdue.edu/cfs/topics/HD/ChildrenVictimsHurrKatrina.pdf
http://www.fema.gov/rebuild/recover/cope_child.shtm
A disaster is frightening to everyone. Several factors play an important part in a child's reaction to the event. Children will be affected by the amount of direct exposure they have had to the disaster. Adults can help children grieve by patiently listening and being able to tolerate feelings.
The terrorism coverage, like kids’ cartoons, has become addictive. Many hours of TV bring the horrors of terrorism into our home. Parents need to be concerned about the possible effect this non-stop coverage might have on children. Even more importantly, what can parents do to ease a child’s fear?
This summary is a starting point for helping children after a disaster. The Child Advocate is devoted to children and the parents and professionals that work with them and advocate for them.
For help in caring for children in challenging times, please call the Better Kid Care Mentoring Help Line – 800-859-8340
Helping Children with Sad Times http://betterkidcare.psu.edu/TIPS/TIPS203.pdf
Relationships: The essential ingredient in caring for children and how you can support it! http://betterkidcare.psu.edu/TIPS/Tips1203.pdf
Creating a Peaceful Environment for Young Children http://betterkidcare.psu.edu/TIPS/Tips801.pdf
Creating a Sense of Place: Considering Routine, Ritual, and Belonging http://betterkidcare.psu.edu/TIPS/Tips1110.pdf
Early Intervention: What do we need to Know? http://betterkidcare.psu.edu/TIPS/Tips1101.pdf