What can I do when a child feels insecure after an event they weren't a part of? Based on material from The Icelandic Red Cross' trauma team for children and teenagers.

Learn about common responses to trauma in children.

Read about normal reactions

An individual can feel trauma after an event even though they were not a part of the event.

Just realizing that something can happen can be traumatic for a child.

The best thing you can do is have an honest and open conversation with the child.

Ask the child what they fear might happen and if they have any specific questions.

Connect words to the child's feelings: anxiety, fear, worry, restlessness, sadness, and powerlessness. Confirm that their emotions are normal.

Be an active listener. Let their questions guide the conversation. Don't give speeches or pretend to know everything. No one has answers to everything.

Confirm that the emotions the child feels are normal. Make sure the child understands the things you said.

Build the child's sense of security.

Maintain a daily routine. Show them love and care. Let the child express their feelings in different ways, like through games or art.

Try to shield the child from intense news or adult talks on tough topics. Especially discussions that are negative and exaggerated.

Remember that for you to be there for others, you first need to be there for yourself.

How can adults help children after trauma?

Click to read more on ways and resources