Often the media will show disturbing images and descriptions of the hurricane and its damage, which can again increase children’s anxiety. Limit and/or supervise media exposure as much as possible.Children are often listening in and can misinterpret what they hear, leading to further anxiety/concerns. Try to monitor conversations you are having with other adults regarding the storms, flooding, damage, etc.
Children are extremely tuned into caregivers’ own reactions during stressful times, and they will often model their own behavior/coping based on what they observe.
Although easier said than done, try to remain calm. What questions do you have for me that I might be able to answer?” Here are some additional tips for caregivers to help facilitate children’s adjustment after a storm or hurricane: For example, a caregiver might say, “I know things may seem confusing or upsetting right now. Often they can only absorb small pieces of information at a time and may feel overwhelmed if provided with too much information at once. It is often best to allow children to take the lead in having these discussions. One way of alleviating children’s anxiety is to make it clear that caregivers are open to answering any questions they may have, and even if they don’t have an immediate answer, they will do their best to give them as much information as possible. On the other hand, some children or adolescents may not want to talk about the events and may prefer to distract themselves. Although this can feel frustrating to caregivers, it can help to remember this is their way of attempting to make sense of a scary and unpredictable situation. How caregivers can meet their children’s needsĬhildren will have many questions during and after a hurricane or other damaging storm and will often repeat questions even if they’ve already been answered. They may also engage in more risk-taking behaviors as a means of coping including drinking alcohol, using substances or engaging in dangerous activities. Teenagers may demonstrate some of the behaviors listed above. Lack of interest in activities they used to enjoy. Changes in sleep patterns or behavior (including wanting to sleep with caregivers). Increased sensitivity/fear surrounding thunder, wind, rain, etc. Preoccupation with storms or hurricanes (talking about it a lot or playing it out with toys). Physical complaints, such as headaches or stomach pain. Angry outbursts, irritability or aggression. 
Concerns and worries about the safety of others, including caregivers, siblings, pets.Children’s reactions during and following the stormĬhildren will have a wide variety of reactions to a hurricane and its aftermath based on their age, developmental stage and any experience they may have had with storms in the past, in addition to any secondary adversities they may face in the aftermath (e.g., damage to home, loss of belongings, etc.). The most important message caregivers can convey is that they will be there to protect their children and keep them safe. Children do best when caregivers appear calm and are able to answer their questions in a simple and honest way. Children will frequently turn to the adults in their lives for information, and younger children in particular may have questions about what is happening around them. The anxiety caregivers often experience during this time can be contagious, so it is helpful for them to monitor their own coping strategies when attempting to help their children. This period of time can be stressful for kids as they watch their caregivers (often frantically) stock up on food, water, batteries, etc. Hurricanes and many other storms are generally predictable, which allows more time to prepare.
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