News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
As a parent, it is important to comfort your children after a natural disaster.
Dr. Peggy Karlosky said families should be patient, caring and listen to their children after the tornado Tuesday morning.
“Just let them talk and be heard, and then we can offer little nuggets that promote safety. We are here. We have each other. Anything that gives them a sense of normalcy,” said Karlosky.
Karlosky said it is regular for children to feel different after an abnormal situation like a tornado and try to give them coping skills.
“Even if we are validating the devastation, horror and sadness of the child, at the same time, let the child know you won’t feel this way forever without discrediting their feelings. This feels endless, but it won’t be,” Karlosky said.
According to Karlosky, tornados can represent unpredictability, so let children make their own small choices to gain control.
“I even saw this in my grandson. He was devastated. His little friend lost everything. My grandson went that day and walked the neighborhood and collected 200 something dollars in a short period and took it to his friend that day. We want to feel like there is something we can do,” Karlosky said.
Karlosky said to not hide from addressing the tragedy and use the volunteering and community to highlight the good.
When addressing a child, keep it simple so their brain can process the event, and do not judge what they say.
-Benjamin Armstrong
