Megan Moriarity for World Vision
How to talk to kids about tragedies, disasters: Tips from World Vision
WASHINGTON, 16 March 2011- As information increases about the devastation of Japan’s
earthquake and tsunami, our children will likely see disturbing news footage and
have questions about this tragedy. Below are several suggestions on how to talk
with children about this disaster and its impact.
These tips are provided by humanitarian organization World Vision. World Vision
has worked in Japan for more than two decades and responded to the massive Kobe
earthquake in 1995, and now has staff assisting in the relief efforts in Sendai.
How to talk to kids about tragedies, disasters: Tips from World Vision
WASHINGTON, 16 March 2011- As information increases about the devastation of Japan’s
earthquake and tsunami, our children will likely see disturbing news footage and
have questions about this tragedy. Below are several suggestions on how to talk
with children about this disaster and its impact.
These tips are provided by humanitarian organization World Vision. World Vision
has worked in Japan for more than two decades and responded to the massive Kobe
earthquake in 1995, and now has staff assisting in the relief efforts in Sendai.
1. Start by listening.
Find out what your child already knows. You can then respond in an age-appropriate
way. The aim is not to worry them with the devastating details, but to protect them
from misinformation they may have heard from friends or disturbing images they may
have seen on television.
2. Provide clear, simple answers.
Limit your answer to the question asked and use simple language.
3. If you don't know the answer, admit it.
If your children ask questions that you can't answer, tell them so, and then do
some research to try and help them sort it out. If they ask "Why did this have to
happen?" don't be afraid to say "I don't know." The reassurance offered can be
invaluable
in helping your child sort through the truth that awful things happen.
4. Follow media reports or online updates privately.
Young children in particular are easily traumatized and seeing or hearing about
the horrifying details of the quake may be more than they can cope with. Adults,
too, should ensure they are dealing with their own emotions by talking to others,
so they can continue to respond well to their children's needs.
5. Concentrate on making them feel safe.
When tragedies occur, children wonder if the same event could happen in their hometown.
If it was an act of nature that could not be repeated in your area, tell children
that. Placing themselves in the situations of victims is not all bad-it is a sign
of empathy, an essential life skill, but watch for signs of excessive worrying.
6. Give children creative outlets.
Some children may not be prepared to speak about what they have heard, but may find
drawing or other creative activities helpful to deal with their emotions and stress.
Their drawings can be helpful starting points for conversation.
7. Model involvement and compassion.
Tell your child that, as a family, you will be helping the people in Japan by giving
a donation to a reputable charity such as World Vision.
8. Give your child a chance to be involved.
Being involved in the solution will help relieve some of their anxiety. Invite them
to contribute to the family’s gift by giving something out of their piggy bank.
For more information on World Vision’s efforts please visit www.worldvision.org/press
or [CLICK HERE].
World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with
children, families and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential
by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. We serve the world’s poor -
regardless
of religion, race, ethnicity or gender.
to contribute to the family’s gift by giving something out of their piggy bank.
For more information on World Vision’s efforts please visit www.worldvision.org/press
or [CLICK HERE].
World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with
children, families and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential
by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. We serve the world’s poor -
regardless
of religion, race, ethnicity or gender.
Megan Moriarity for World Vision
