So we ask ourselves over and over "Why did that happen? Why did that happen now? Why did that happen to them?" We adults feel sad and depressed. We feel helpless and powerless to do anything to compensate or to make the disaster right. Images of sobbing children, distraught mothers, frantic fathers, terrible injuries and dead bodies sear themselves into our minds. The story repeats and grows by the hour. It is more than we can stand.
Is it any wonder, then, that children find it so difficult to cope with disasters? We need to talk about the disaster and be a calming influence for the young people around us.
Use this mnemonic to help children cope with disaster.
C - Calm
Be calm. Children need your quiet, calm demeanor when disaster strikes.It brings order out of chaos and confusion.
O - Offer
Offer answers. Offer facts. Do not offer judgment.
P - Professional
Know when to suggest professional help. Some students may need counseling in order to deal with disaster. It all depends on the child's background and experiences.
E - Extra
Spend extra time and give extra attention to the children around you.
S - Shut off
Shut off the television. Children do not need to see the disaster replayed every minute during the day. When you do turn the television on, watch reports of the disaster with your children. Explain what they are seeing. Comfort them.
Resources
Save The Children
Helping Children Handle Disaster-Related Anxiety
Talking With Children About War and Violence In the World
