How does an earthquake affect my child?

First, let's talk about how a child can be affected by an earthquake.  Any disaster can leave a child feeling frightened, confused, and insecure.  It doesn't matter whether a child has personally experienced trauma or has merely seen the event on television, or has heard it discussed by adults, it is important that other family members and teachers be informed and ready to help if reactions to stress begin to occur.

A child may respond to disaster by becoming fearful, sad, or exhibit behavioral problems. Younger children may return to earlier behavior patterns, such as bedwetting, sleep problems, and separation anxiety. Older children may also display anger, aggression, school problems, or withdrawal.

Most of these responses will be temporary, depending on how extreme the circumstances are.  As parents, we all know when our children need extra assurance they will be safe. Reminders of the earthquake such as slamming doors and watching the news may cause upsetting feelings to return.  In most cases, distressing responses are temporary.

How a child copes with the earthquake is often tied to the way the parents cope.  A child can finely tune into adults' fears and sadness.  Parents and adults have their own trauma to deal with, however, it's important they take steps to manage their own feelings.  This is the time a child really needs adults to lead by example and be strong.  Let your child know that you feel fear also and that in spite of that fear, you are going to take action to make sure all of you will be safe.

Here's the best tip, EVER! Prepare a family disaster plan before anything happens in the first place.  This gives the adults and the child a sense of control and builds confidence before an earthquake shakes up the family. Involve your child in those plans.  Encourage their help in putting together the emergency supplies and the family communication plan.

(This is the first article in a series regarding the well-being of your family. Our family sincerely hopes that your family will find these words helpful and sometimes even comforting.  We want your family to blossom and grow in this world, and to be healthy and safe.  Please let us know if this short article helped you.)