An earthquake is a traumatic event for people. But for children under the age of 10, the situation is a little different, because they cannot make sense of the event, cannot shape it, and thus the risk of experiencing a severe trauma is high. For children at this age who cannot think abstractly, it is difficult to understand how an earthquake occurred. While this event, which they cannot process in their minds, is frightening, there is also an element of anxiety. Intense anxiety, insecurity, and fear occur in children who experience anxiety. In addition to many mental problems such as waking up in fear, being afraid of being alone, being withdrawn, physical problems such as unexplained abdominal pain, irregular sleep, and nausea may also be seen in their dreams.
It is very important to bring this uncertainty formed in the minds of children to a certain state so that they can understand natural disasters such as earthquakes. Explaining the child in accordance with his age and development will make it easier for him to understand this natural phenomenon and will enable him to cope with fears and anxieties. The most important task in this regard falls to you, the parents.
So, how should you talk about the earthquake reality with your child and what should you pay attention to?
When talking to your child about the earthquake, your mood and your approach to your child are very important. If you are experiencing anxiety, you should not make your child feel it. Especially if you are calm during an earthquake, it will be very effective in not experiencing trauma. Because children are immediately affected by the reactions of the people around them at the moment of an event. In addition to the speeches containing anxiety, panic, excitement, and fear that he will witness at the time of the incident, TV news and disaster discourses affect the psychology of the child negatively.
Pay attention to his emotional state and try to explain natural events to your child in a simple way that he can understand. In fact, if you use a toy for your child and turn it into a game, it will make it easier for him to understand.
Tell your child what to do during and after the earthquake. Keep it on the agenda until you are sure you know where to hide during an earthquake, where it can be safe, how to protect it, and what to do after an earthquake.
By preparing an earthquake kit with your child, reduce the uncertainty in his mind so that he can develop a sense of trust.
Do not express your feelings and thoughts about the earthquake in a grave way in front of the child, but remember that moderate emotional sharing is one of the most beneficial ways to reduce the anxiety of the child and family.
Develop your child's perception in this direction by explaining that natural events do not harm people and that people are harmed because they do not act in accordance with nature.