Weather disasters and other emergencies are highly stressful on the residents of affected areas, but children can be the most vulnerable to the disruption in their lives. Knowing what kind of behavior to expect in the wake of a disaster, and understanding how to help children cope with their fears are an essential part of preparing and planning for possible emergencies.

"Knowing what to expect from a child and knowing how to help them to cope with what has happened may be the single most important thing a parent can do in being prepared for an emergency," said Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) Director Gary W. McConnell.

"It is also important for emergency responders to understand how children react to disasters and to be able to respond accordingly," McConnell added.

McConnell pointed out that children are not emotionally equipped to deal with the loss of their home and belongings, or with a period of displacement resulting from an evacuation. He said it is essential for parents and adult family members, as well as emergency responders, to understand how children react to stress and to know how to address their needs and to reassure them.

A child's reaction to a crisis depends on a number of factors, but various behavior patterns can be expected including: distress, restlessness, anger and physical aggression, fear and anxiety, reticence, guilt, symptoms of illness, and the return to behavior patterns of a younger age.

The fears can be especially wide ranging. Children can experience an overwhelming fear of leaving home or of being left alone. They may also fear the disaster that disrupted their lives will reoccur, and feel anxiety over what will happen to them. Some children may even feel that they are somehow responsible for what happened because of their previous behavior.

According to mental health experts, listening to children express their feelings and fears following a disaster is critical. They also recommended that adults talk with children about the disaster and about their own feelings, and repeat reassurances frequently. Physical contact is important, and parents should take the time to hold young children to provide comfort. Play opportunities should be provided to relieve tension. Returning to a routine as soon as possible is also helpful to children.

Children should also be given the opportunity to mourn or grieve over their losses, no matter how insignificant they may seem to an adult. The loss of a favorite toy or "security blanket" can be extremely distressing.

"The most important response, however, is to reassure your children that you care and that you are there to take care of them," McConnell added.

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