Helping Your Child Deal with the Anniversary of Sandy

As we approach the one year anniversary of Sandy, it is important to check in with your children.  Feelings about the storm may resurface as a result of the media attention about the anniversary.  Here are some tips:
*Check in on your own reaction.  Processing your own feelings will help you be able to reach out to your children.
*Talk with your children.  Just because they are not talking, does not mean they are not thinking about Sandy.  It is important to keep the communication open with them.  They may be scared to bring up the issue over fear of upsetting you.  They also may not want to talk when you do-be patient, but keep the door open to talking.
*Be aware of any changes in behavior; sleep issues, somatic issues, angry outbursts, irritability; avoidance of activities/friends.  Your child may be experiencing emotional issues, such as PTSD from Sandy and you may want to consider counseling.  Many free resources for counseling are available in our area.  Check online and with your school counselors.
*Monitor TV/Media exposure.  Many young children when seeing images from last year may be re-traumatized and fear that the event is happening again.
*Continue to provide a safe and nurturing environment-even if you have moved several times, keep as much consistency in your life as your can, i.e. Same bedtime, meal times, etc. Structure helps children to feel secure.
*Remember you are not alone.  Children are resilient and having supportive adults around them will help them recover and move forward.  If you need help-reach out.  We are all in this together