All children are different and the way they respond to stressful situations is different and depends on the strength of the swing, the age, the explanation given to them by the parents, exposure to the media, etc. Following are some of the common concerns of children and how parents, carers or teachers should respond.
Children feel confused about the situation: Give clear explanations whenever they ask you. Avoid details that may frighten them. Correct information that they know is wrong so they are not confused about the risk. Do not treat the earthquake as a scarecrow, but adapt the natural phenomenon to children's words. For example, you might say, ?At the bottom of our planet Earth, there are some big tiles like the tiles we have in the house. They move and collide with each other. Sometimes they collide a little harder and the planet shakes. ?
Children are afraid of an earthquake: Help them to understand the difference between an earthquake and the aftermath. Don't lie to them. Explain that there may be other slight swings, but make them feel safe.
Children panicked: Always keep them in touch with media coverage, as they will be more afraid.
Children talk about earthquake all the time: Let them talk about earthquake; is their way of expressing themselves. On the other hand, try to keep them busy with activities like games and drawings.
Children have trouble sleeping: Opportunities for dreams, nightmares and fears are high. Explain that bad dreams are normal and will go away. Make it clear that it happens to us all. If you see fit, sleep with them until they calm down.
Children change behaviors: After physical and emotional shock, behaviors change and become more aggressive. In fact, it is a common, though disturbing, behavior. Make it possible for children to stay in touch with creative and fun activities.
Children complain of headaches, stomachaches, teeth, etc.: Find out if they really need to see a doctor, or otherwise their way of getting more attention as a result of fear. Make sure they slept, drank and ate enough.
Source: Psychological First Aid Operations Guide
