06/10/2025
💙 Supporting young children following a traumatic event and distressing event 💙
As children try and make sense of what has happened, it is normal for them to experience many mixed emotions, distressing thoughts and images.
What can help:
• Let children know their reactions are normal and understandable and that you are there for them
• Create safety and predictability with usual routines and activities, where possible
• Keep your child well fuelled and rested with regular food, drinks, bathing and sleeping
• Be available to talk when your child is ready, be curious about what they are saying, drawing or how they are playing
• Help children make sense of what has happened; provide simple age appropriate answers to questions
• Encourage connection with friends and family; children feel safe with normality
• Recognise that many changes in behaviour are temporary and probably triggered by fear and distress caused by the original event
• Have realistic expectations of your child, reduce unnecessary demands
