What can I do if a child feels unwell after an incident (like violence)?
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
The best thing you can do is have an honest and open discussion with the child.
Ask the child what they know about the event and if they have any specific questions.
Link words to the child's feelings: anxiety, fear, worry, restlessness, sadness, and powerlessness.
Be an active listener.
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.
Use simple words that don't have many meanings.
For example, don't say "fall asleep" to describe death. It can cause the child to fear falling asleep or others falling asleep.
Build the child's sense of security.
Maintain a daily routine.
Show them love and care.
Let the child express their feelings through games or art.
Try to protect the child from excess news media or adult conversations on difficult 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.
Nurture yourself and allow yourself to experience the feelings you have.
How can adults help children after trauma?
Click to read more
on ways and resources