Helping Children After Wildfires
Malibu, CA, November 27, 2007 --(PR.com)-- Parent Guidelines for Helping Children Impacted by Wildfires
During and after a wildfire of any magnitude, but particularly one that will have affected so many of our local families, it’s important to help children cope with the fears and worries that come from their sense of safety being so powerfully challenged. Children’s reactions to the wildfires and their aftermath are largely influenced by observing how their parents cope during and after the events, and by having the opportunity to freely express their anxiety and concern. What follows are a few suggestions from Malibu, California therapist, Susan Stiffelman. For more information visit www.susanstiffelman.com
How Can I Help My Child After the Fires?
• Avoid exposing children to a constant barrage of frightening images on TV.
• In the midst of the drama and catching the latest updates, it’s easy to overlook our children’s need for calm and closeness with us. Spend extra time with your children, staying connected.
• Monitor conversations. Be aware of what is being said during adult conversations about the wildfires and its aftermath. Young children may misinterpret what they hear and can be frightened unnecessarily about something they do not understand.
• Set aside quiet time to talk with your child, avoiding the temptation to jump in with reasons that suggest their worries are unfounded. The more you can get your child to express, the less likely it will be that they’ll harbor secret fears and worries. Remember: there’s often a more burning question underneath whatever question they ask. Before you start offering logical reassurance, help your child offload his or her worries and fears. My favorite phrase for this is “Tell me more.”
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During and after a wildfire of any magnitude, but particularly one that will have affected so many of our local families, it’s important to help children cope with the fears and worries that come from their sense of safety being so powerfully challenged. Children’s reactions to the wildfires and their aftermath are largely influenced by observing how their parents cope during and after the events, and by having the opportunity to freely express their anxiety and concern. What follows are a few suggestions from Malibu, California therapist, Susan Stiffelman. For more information visit www.susanstiffelman.com
How Can I Help My Child After the Fires?
• Avoid exposing children to a constant barrage of frightening images on TV.
• In the midst of the drama and catching the latest updates, it’s easy to overlook our children’s need for calm and closeness with us. Spend extra time with your children, staying connected.
• Monitor conversations. Be aware of what is being said during adult conversations about the wildfires and its aftermath. Young children may misinterpret what they hear and can be frightened unnecessarily about something they do not understand.
• Set aside quiet time to talk with your child, avoiding the temptation to jump in with reasons that suggest their worries are unfounded. The more you can get your child to express, the less likely it will be that they’ll harbor secret fears and worries. Remember: there’s often a more burning question underneath whatever question they ask. Before you start offering logical reassurance, help your child offload his or her worries and fears. My favorite phrase for this is “Tell me more.”
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Contact
Susan Stiffelman
310-589-7020
www.susanstiffelman.com
310-589-7020
www.susanstiffelman.com
Contact
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