The Disaster in Japan

Talking with our children about the events in Japan is a daunting task. The issues are multifold, as will be their questions and concerns. Allowing children a voice, reassuring them realistically about safety, and being honest with them about our feelings is just the beginning.

Issues you may want to discuss with your kids about the disaster in Japan are:

• Begin by listening. Ascertain what your children already know, then respond in an age-appropriate way. The goal is not to burden them with the devastating details, but to shield them from misinformation they may have heard.
• Limit your answer to the question, and always use simple language. If your children ask questions that you can not answer, tell them so, and then do some research to try and help them sort understand it. If they ask "Why did this have to happen?" don't be afraid to say "I don't know."
• Follow media reports or online updates privately. Shield them from disturbing images.
• Particularly if your child/children are 7 years of age or younger, keep the conversation simple. Acknowledge the facts that they tell you, and reassure them that this won't happen to them
• Let kids know that they are safe and that you are safe. If your child/children exhibit anxiety, the more you can ascertain about what scares them, the better you will be able to address their fears.
• Be honest with your children about your feelings; however, be careful not to appear out of control.
• Tragedies such as this can arouse empathy in children. Even children of a very young age may express the need to help in some way. Tell your child that, as a family, you will be helping the people in Japan by giving a donation to a reputable charity.

Here are some questions you may want to ask your kids:

• Ask your children what they know about the earthquake and tsunami, and how they heard this information.
• Encourage children to express their feelings. Allow them to talk about the disaster and listen very carefully. This will help you to find out their degree of distress.
• Concentrate on making them feel safe. Ask specific questions such as "How do you feel? Does it make you feel scared? What worries you the most?"
• Is there anything else you want to talk about?

For a list of books about understanding natural disasters, visit our Suggested Reading section.