Support children's emotional recovery after disasters with age-appropriate strategies.
Children process disaster trauma differently than adults. They may not have the words to express their fear, and their behavior may regress or change dramatically after a crisis. Understanding how children experience trauma at different developmental stages — and knowing how to support them — is critical for long-term recovery. This guide covers recognizing trauma signs by age group, creating a sense of safety, facilitating expression, and knowing when to seek professional help.
Step 1 of 7
Signs: excessive crying, regression (bedwetting, thumb sucking), clinginess, sleep disturbances, fear of separation, loss of language skills. Young children can't verbalize trauma — they show it through behavior.
Pro Tip
Regression is a normal trauma response in young children. Don't shame them. Provide extra comfort and patience.
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