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Disaster & Trauma Response

Disaster Response

 
Sadly, we live in a world where our kids (and adults) are not always able to be guarded from hard moments and realities. 
Ministries Across Generations has starting places for quality ways to engage in conversation with younger people.
 
There is also a list of organizations to help when disaster strikes. You are welcome to learn more and get involved!
Quick Reference from Sesame Street:
What to say when your child says, “I’m scared!”
 
2 years old or younger: Let your child know it’s okay to feel scared. Even more than words, young children need tangible reassurance. Try providing your child with a comfort item to hold on to, and keep her close at hand. Lots of hugs help, too!
 
3 TO 5: “It’s OK to feel scared. Can you tell Mommy why you’re scared? Mommy loves you, and I will be here to keep you safe.”
 
6 TO 11: Start by asking your child what she already knows about what has happened and how she’s feeling, so you know how to address her particular concerns. Reassure her that it’s okay to be scared, but that she is safe and will be cared for.”
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Resources


Children’s Disaster Services is an organization that provides a wide range of services both for people directly affected by disasters and those who want to help. They’ve produced this pamphlet to help you know how to help your child cope with trauma. It’s also available in Spanish!
 
Here for Each Other:  This great resource for parents comes from Sesame Street and provides parents with ways to talk with their children about emergencies.
 
Helping Young Children With Traumatic Grief: Tips for Caregivers from The National Child Traumatic Stress Network
 
Tips for Talking WIth and Helping Children and Youth Cope After a Disaster or Traumatic Event from SAMHSA
 
IASC Guidelines on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support in Emergency Situations
 
Disaster: A Good Answers to Tough Questions Book by Joy Berry

Find Hotlines on the Tough Situations Page 

 

This page was last updated by wks 6/15/21

Tangible Ways to Help

If your church or area has been affected by disaster please
contact the following resources for immediate and urgent needs:

Week of Compassion or One Great Hour of Sharing (UCC)
Children's Disaster Services
NVOAD: National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster

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