Como Hablar A Los Niños Sobre Desastres

How to Talk to Kids About Disasters
A week after the tragedy in Japan began, it’s still impossible to turn the TV on or glance at a newspaper without seeing…
By Reader's Digest Editors
A weekafter the tragedy in Japan began, it’s still impossible to turn the TV on or glance at a newspaper without seeing dramatic images of the earthquake and tsunami’s aftermath, as well as frightening scenesof the ongoing nuclear crisis. And if we’re seeing these photos and videos, we can be sure our kids are too. Kids, from small children to teens, may be curious, concerned, or even terrified by whatthey’re seeing. Instead of trying to dodge reality, keep these tips in mind when discussing difficult events in the news with kids:
1. Validate their feelings. Trying to protect your child by tellingher not to worry or think about disasters may be your first instinct, but it’s more helpful to let her know that you recognize she’s worried, and allow her to talk about her fears.
2. Explain thesituation. When talking to kids about tragedies, it’s important to be truthful. If they don’t hear about what’s happening from you they’ll hear about it at school or on the playground anyway. It’s equallyimportant not to overwhelm or confuse your child with more information than he needs to know. Explain why natural disasters like earthquakes or floods occur, and where they’re most likely—orunlikely—to happen.
3. Clarify misconceptions. Sometimes we assume kids know more than they actually do, or they act savvier than they really are. Find out what your child believes or has heard about an event,and where she got this information. Explain to her that what you’ve told her about the situation is reliable information you learned from sources that you—and she—can trust.
4. Don’t shy away fromthe tough stuff. Kids know that when disasters happen, people die. It’s OK to talk to your child about death, and to let her know that you’re thinking about the people who died too. Remind your...