Talking to Children When Scary Things Happen

• 2022

  Log in to bookmark this resource.

  Log in

---

Access Resources

• Job AidEN
• Job AidES
• Ask aRCie About This Resource

About

This tip sheet describes how adults can support children after scary or violent events. It suggests that adults first check in with their own feelings, then create a safe space for kids to share. Adults should give simple, clear information, ask open questions about the child’s thoughts and feelings, and help them name their emotions. Limiting media exposure is important. Adults should listen carefully, be patient with silence, and let children know their feelings are normal. The main goal is to help kids feel safe and supported by caring adults around them.

---

Tags

Focus Areas: Mental Health; Natural Disasters; Severe Weather; Trauma; Violence

Audiences: Behavioral Health Professionals; Families & Children

Emergency Management Stages: Mitigation; Response; Preparedness (Prevention / Protection)

Keywords: Child; Communication; Crisis Intervention; Disasters; Emotions; Parent-Child Relations; Social Support; Violence; Adolescent; Resilience, Psychological; Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders

Institutions: National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN); University of Colorado Boulder

---

More like this

Helping Young Children with Traumatic Grief: Tips for Caregivers 2014 · National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) Helping Teens with Traumatic Grief: Tips for Caregivers 2014 · National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) (NCTSN) Trauma Types: Disasters: Hurricane Resources None · National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN)

---

The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only. It does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

---