Natural disasters like hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes can cause fear, anxiety, and even depression among children.  Sometime impacts aren’t felt for weeks, months, or even longer.  School counselors, trained in providing immediate and long-term support to students in coping with disasters, stress to parents the importance of creating a feeling of safety for their children. 

On the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, the American School Counselor Association offers parents the following tips:

• Monitor your child’s television exposure.  As the anniversary date approaches, many newscasts will revisit and discuss the aftermaths of the event.  Some may show footage that could be traumatic in nature and stir-up feelings of anxiety.  Be mindful of exposure to this coverage among children, particularly those of a young age.

• Focus on the positive.  In conversations around the anniversary, stress progress and hope.  Perhaps your child has new friends or has taken up a new activity or sport.   Highlight ways their life has improved over the last year.

• Develop a plan of action.  Be honest in acknowledging that natural disasters may occur again, but use this time to discuss and update your family plan for emergencies.  This provides added assurance for your children’s safety and demonstrates a sense of having some control.

o Familiarize yourself with your school's emergency preparedness plans.
o Make sure the school has your most up-to-date contact information.
o Ensure that your child carries emergency contact information in their backpack.
o Designate a place to meet in case an emergency occurs when they are not in school.
Teach younger children how and when to call for help.

• Keep activities normal around the anniversary date.  Follow establish routines and continue scheduled activities.  Provide a since of normalcy for your children to reassure their safety.