When a storm hits, there are many thing that can frighten children to cause their anxiety to spike and make for a challenging situation. Power going out, loud sounds, banging and disruption in the normal routine can all leave kids (and some parents too) feeling a little out of sorts.
We've provided 5 Key Tips below to help keep everyone calm - as much as possible - during a storm.
1. ) VALIDATE the child as much as possible and avoid judging, dismissing or arguing with them about their fears.
2.) Create a PLAN beforehand of all the activities you can do if the power goes out. This can help Parents & kids feel like the have more control in a potentially very powerless situation.
3.) Remain NEUTRAL & CALM as this is the critical piece that helps kids feel more emotionally secure. They are observing your every more and reaction in order to make sense of what is going on.
4.) Allow them to FEEL THE FEAR instead of avoiding it. This can help them process the feelings, move through it and then move on. Let them know you are there with them and they are not alone. This is a great time to take deep breaths and do other relaxing techniques.
5.) DISCUSS the details of the storm and what is happening. Kids like to get the scoop on what is going on around them. Ensure you keep it age-appropriate.
We've provided 5 Key Tips below to help keep everyone calm - as much as possible - during a storm.
1. ) VALIDATE the child as much as possible and avoid judging, dismissing or arguing with them about their fears.
2.) Create a PLAN beforehand of all the activities you can do if the power goes out. This can help Parents & kids feel like the have more control in a potentially very powerless situation.
3.) Remain NEUTRAL & CALM as this is the critical piece that helps kids feel more emotionally secure. They are observing your every more and reaction in order to make sense of what is going on.
4.) Allow them to FEEL THE FEAR instead of avoiding it. This can help them process the feelings, move through it and then move on. Let them know you are there with them and they are not alone. This is a great time to take deep breaths and do other relaxing techniques.
5.) DISCUSS the details of the storm and what is happening. Kids like to get the scoop on what is going on around them. Ensure you keep it age-appropriate.
Contact or learn more about Julie Romanowski - Mother, Coach, Leader, Educator, Author, Speaker & founder of Miss Behaviour: parenting coach & consultant services.
www.missbehaviour.ca
778-996-6535
www.missbehaviour.ca
778-996-6535
