Contributed by Frameworks of Tampa Bay
Natural disasters, like hurricanes, can be deeply unsettling, especially for children who may not have the emotional vocabulary to express their fears, anxieties and confusion.
Guiding your child through acknowledging their feelings and exploring ways to manage them will help build resilience and a sense of security. This can be difficult for parents as they manage their own emotions. Below are some strategies to help children navigate their feelings and build resilience in the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
Provide Reassurance and Establish Safety
Reassure your children by emphasizing safety and support. Use age-appropriate language to explain what has happened and what steps are being taken to stay safe. Be sure to limit exposure to news and social media, as they can increase anxiety. To regain a sense of control and normalcy, re-establish routines as soon as possible. Consistent routines, such as regular mealtimes, bedtime rituals and family activities, provide children with stability and security.
Help Children Identify Emotions
Children can experience intense feelings but may not have the words to describe them. Helping them name their emotions empowers them. For younger children, consider using a picture book like The Color Monster by Anna Llenas. After reading the book, ask your child to draw a monster and color it based on the emotions they’re feeling. You can also use emotion charts as a visual aid. Ask questions like, “Can you show me which face on this chart looks most like how you’re feeling?” Using play as a tool for emotional expression is another option. Younger children often express their feelings while coloring or during imaginative play. Participate alongside them and prompt a conversation based on their play.
Older children may have a better emotional vocabulary but can be confused by the range of emotions they’re experiencing. They may feel grateful they’re safe, relieved they have no damage, guilty that others have lost things, sad for their friends, worried about the future and more. Giving your child the opportunity to discuss their various emotions is important. Older children may be hesitant to sit down and talk, so it can be more effective to start a conversation during an activity, such as taking a walk or shooting hoops.
Validate Their Feelings
At any age, it’s essential to validate your child’s emotions. Saying things like “Don’t be scared” or “There’s nothing to worry about now” might come from a place of comfort, but it can make children feel their emotions are wrong or unimportant. Instead, acknowledge their feelings with statements like, “It’s okay to feel scared after such a big storm.” Validation doesn’t mean reinforcing negative emotions; it means recognizing their experience, which helps them feel heard and understood.
Model Healthy Coping Mechanisms
Children often take cues from their parents on how to handle difficult situations. By modeling healthy ways to cope with stress and anxiety, you can teach your child valuable skills. Show your child it’s okay to feel sad or worried, but it’s also important to take care of yourself. This might include practicing relaxation techniques, talking to friends or engaging in hobbies that bring joy. Demonstrating self-care and resilience provides a positive example for your child as they navigate their emotions after the hurricane.
Seek Additional Support if Needed
If you feel your child needs more support than you can provide, many outside resources are available. A good place to start is your school’s guidance counselor. Remember, give yourself grace—there is no perfect way to approach emotions, but small steps can make a big difference.
Our hearts go out to those affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, and we hope these suggestions are helpful. Together, we will rebuild and support those in need.
Frameworks of Tampa Bay Inc.
www.myframeworks.org
Mission: To equip every child in Tampa Bay with the knowledge and skills to become kind, collaborative and capable citizens.
Vision: A vibrant community where everyone succeeds personally, academically and professionally because emotional intelligence is practiced everywhere we live and learn.
To Recap:
Provide Reassurance and Establish Safety: Use simple, age-appropriate language to explain the situation and how you are keeping everyone safe. Limit news exposure to reduce anxiety. Re-establish routines to give children a sense of stability and control.
Help Children Identify Emotions: Younger children may need help naming their feelings. Use tools like The Color Monster by Anna Llenas, emotion charts, or imaginative play to facilitate emotional expression. Older children, who might feel a mix of emotions, benefit from open conversations about their complex feelings during shared activities like walking or playing sports.
Validate Their Feelings: Acknowledge their emotions without dismissing them. Instead of saying, “Don’t be scared,” try statements like, “It’s okay to feel scared after a big storm.” Validating their feelings helps them feel heard and supported.
Model Healthy Coping Mechanisms: Children learn by observing their parents. Show them how to manage stress by practicing self-care, relaxation and engaging in hobbies. Demonstrating resilience and emotional regulation provides a powerful example.
Seek Additional Support if Needed: If your child’s emotions feel overwhelming, reaching out to school counselors or other resources may provide extra help.