Parents may notice one or more of these behaviors as your child struggles to cope with the stress and loss resulting from a disaster. Remember, these are natural reactions. By showing patience and acceptance, you will reassure your child and encourage the process of getting back to normal.

Young children may…

Demonstrate angry feelings by hitting, kicking, throwing things.
Become more active or restless.
Worry about what will happen to them.
Be afraid to be left alone or afraid to sleep alone. They may have bad dreams or want to sleep with a parent or sibling.
Behave as they did when they were younger, want a bottle, suck their thumb, wet the bed, and want to be held.
Be afraid that the event will reoccur, asking, “Will it happen again?”
Be upset at the loss of a favorite toy, blanket, teddy bear, etc.
Have symptoms of illness such as fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and loss of appetite.
Become quiet and withdrawn, not wanting to talk about the experience. Cry excessively, whine, and cling to you.
Express feelings of guilt that they caused the event in some way.
Feel neglected by parents who are busy with other tasks.
Refuse to go to day care or school. Children may not want to let you out of their sight.
Become afraid of loud noises, storms or unfamiliar people.
Show no outward sign of being upset. Some children may never show distress because they do not feel upset. Others may not give evidence of being upset until several weeks or months after the event.

The above information includes minor revisions from a brochure developed by:Emergency Response/Service Ministries, Disaster Child Care, P.O. Box 188, New Windsor, Maryland 21776 Used by permission. www.disasterchildcare.org

Next: What You Can Do To Help Children Understand Their Feelings