UNDERSTANDING TRAUMA – A GUIDE FOR PARENTS AND CARERS OF CHILDREN

What can you do to help your child?

Your child will need to feel safe with you and believe that you and other significant people in their lives can cope and manage whatever they are feeling and behaving.  Your child may push boundaries but try to stay calm.  They will want to know they are loved by you regardless of whatever has happened to them.

Let your child know that it is normal to have lots of different feelings and emotions after a trauma.

Help them accept whatever emotions they are feeling, empathise with them and acknowledge that the trauma they have experienced has been really tough.  Let them know you think they are very brave and courageous.

Keep the routine going for your child as best as possible as this provides a sense of familiarity.

Distraction techniques can help take your child’s mind off what might be worrying them.  Ideas include:

• Playing games
• Singing songs or listening to music
• Cooking
• Drawing and painting
• Playing with friends
• Mindfulness activities
• Swimming, ball games or other sporting activities
• Creative activities