Helping Young Children Through Natural Disasters

There is no doubt that times of disaster or grief cause stress, hurt, despair, and more for adults. What we don't always think of though, is the deep impact these times can have on the youngest among us. 

Just this week we have been shocked and saddened at the devastation left across the Southeast by Hurricane Helene. 

As physical donations are pouring in from all over, we want to send help for caregivers as they navigate the emotions and mental well-being of the children in their lives. 

Our Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Specialists put together a guide on how to understand what babies and young children need from us during difficult times. 

What would babies say if we asked them what they needed right now?

The following points will answer the question above. Take time to reflect on your child's recent behavior and see if you can reorient your responses to what they are likely trying to tell you.

Pause, Slow Down

"I need you to take a deep breath. There’s lots of scary and confusing things happening right now, and I need you to share your calm with me, just by being with me when I need you to be.” 

The presence of a regulated, consistent, emotionally available adult is the most important factor in reducing the impact of a stressful event.

Maintain Routines

“I need to know what to expect next. I liked when I knew our regular schedule of eating, sleeping, and playing. Consistency makes me feel safe.”

Natural disasters disrupt our routines and access to resources. As much as possible, even if in a different environment, return to your child’s familiar routines and schedules.

Anticipate Big Feelings

“I need you to know that I’m acting ‘like a baby’, or having big and messy behaviors, because of what happened. I’m not trying to be difficult, it’s all just too much for my little body”

Young children don’t have the language or developmental capacity to tell us what is going on with them, so they show us with their behaviors which can be linked to uncomfortable feelings.

Organize The Story

“I need to know why everything changed and what happened in a way that I can understand. I need to know I’m not alone in the way I’m feeling.”

Young children are developmentally prone to create their own narrative about what went wrong. Tell them the story of what happened, answer their repetitive questions, and use play as a language they can understand. 

Look For The Helpers

“I need to know it’s going to be okay, and that there is something good to look forward to.”

Mister Rogers says “look for the helpers” when something bad happens. Help your children hold hope for better things to come, and identify good news and positive stories of ways the community comes together to support each other.

Children need you to be confident that you’re the one that can help them the most!

If you're feel you need more help with your child's behaviors post-natural disaster, please contact Help Me Grow. Fill out our free developmental survey and one of our Care Coordinators will reach out to connect you to community resources. Help Me Grow Website