Children usually look to adults for cues on behavior and reactions, especially during times of terrorism and war. When they see adults who are anxious, fearful or panicking, they will imitate this. Setting an example for them helps them to deal with the situation better and teaches them healthy response patterns. War affected children and conflict zone children naturally feel alone and insecure, possibly even regressing to behavior traits that they had outgrown. Parents, teachers and trusted adults can help to create an atmosphere of security during events of terrorism and war as well as display emotional strength that can shape a child’s behavior for years to come. Click here to Read more
Terrorism and war are frightening realities that children and families have to deal with today. For parents, it is a difficult position to be in: wanting to preserve a child’s innocence and also knowing that such matters need to be discussed. There is constant media footage of distressing images, dying children and conflict scenarios or war and children are equally exposed. Even children who are completely unaffected by an event will still have questions about it and about the people involved. Understanding how to help traumatized children can make it easier to answer them. Click here to Read more
Children in traumatic times suffer a range of emotions, from guilt, insignificance and grief to powerlessness, anger and confusion. At such times, they look at the adults around them for tips on coping with trauma. In the aftermath of a natural disaster, children returning to the routine of child care are comforted and reassured. As far as possible, maintaining the established routine helps children cope with trauma and childhood PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). Click here to Read more
In the aftermath of a natural disaster, adults find it hard to rationalize and accept the catastrophe. For children, coping with trauma is enhanced by their sense of powerlessness and dependency. Often, an entire area or community has suffered destruction and death during this event, making even the comfort of normalcy impossible for children. At this point, when children turn to them for cues, parents and teachers or child carers have a huge role to play in helping children coping with the trauma of a natural disaster. Click here to Read more
