Posted in: Coping with Frightening Events

Helping Children Cope with Frightening Events…without Frightening Them

Age Appropriate Answers for Your Children
There is no easy way to talk to children about the nightmarish events and threatening stories they see in the media almost every day. Yet it is one of the most important things we can do as caring adults. It is key that the context of the discussion is sensitive to a child’s developmental level and the specific circumstances. Children of all ages will want to know: What does this mean to me? How will I be affected? Will my family and I be safe? Children will take their cues from their parents and the other important adults in their lives. If you convey calm and security, even in a very serious situation, they are far more likely to feel safe.

Don’t be afraid to talk to your children about scary topics. You are the best source of information for them and can fashion age appropriate responses. When children are frightened, they look to their parents for guidance. Speak to them. They will listen and be comforted by your thoughtful and caring answers to their questions.

Conversations about such serious topics should happen in a quiet place without distractions. There needs to be time to both talk and listen. Most adults have an easier time talking than they do listening.

For younger children (8 and under)

• The safety of the child and his or her loved ones will be a central concern. Try to keep the information as simple as possible. They are not interested in the details but in the safety of themselves and the people closest to them.
• Multiple, repetitive reassurances that the important people in the child’s life are doing everything possible to keep him or her safe are invaluable.
• Extra time and attention will be soothing. Maintaining dependable routines will help also.
• Limiting their exposure to the media (television, newspapers, etc.) and watching/reading with them will help insure that they don’t feel overwhelmed by the images that we all struggle with.

Visit the source fo this posting for the complete article: Children’s Hospital Boston is the primary pediatric teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School

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