Helping children cope after a disaster

Children may be left feeling unsure, anxious and scared after trauma of the recent earthquake and the main thing for parents to remember is to be patient and reassuring with them.

Children may be feeling afraid so now, more than ever, the most important thing is to ensure children are safe and feeling loved and reassured.

Some families will be unable to return to their home, have left the area or might have other people staying with them and routines for children may therefore be disrupted.

If you have left Christchurch contact the Plunket office in the town you are now staying to let us know you are safe, find out how you can see a Plunket Nurse, where and when parent and play groups are held and any other support we may be able to offer you and your family.

In the meantime remember children pick up on stress around them, which can make them act out, and transgress back into behaviour much younger than their age (eg bed wetting, clinginess etc).

If you want to speak with a Plunket nurse our free telephone service is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week – 0800 933 922

Tips to help your child cope:
Be a caring parent
Parents and guardians play a major role in ensuring the safety and well being of their children. Although you may be under more stress after a natural disaster, it is important to continue caring for your children. Children are strongly affected by your reactions.

Keep your children safe
You must know where your children are and who they are with at all time.

Establish routines
Establishing new routines is especially important when normal ones are disrupted. If you are in a shelter and unable to return home, establish routines such taking a family walk, eating meals together, or reading a bedtime story.

Take a time-out
When you feel overwhelmed, take a time-out. Take a few deep breaths, count to 10, or take a walk alone.

Ask others for help
Ask trusted friends, family members, and other parents for help if you feel overwhelmed.

When to seek help
The best gift you can offer children is understanding. Don’t hesitate to seek advice if you do not understand any aspect of your child’s behaviour or if you have any concerns. A little help early can save a lot of heartache.

Adapted from information issued by http://www.samhsa.gov and Queensland Health: Fact Sheets for Psychosocial Disaster Management.

Visit the Ministry of Health website for more factsheets and advice