Helping your child deal with natural disasters

Children of any age can have problems coping with a natural disaster, especially those that fill the media with graphic images.  However, there are steps you can take to make the process a little bit easier. Psychologist Phyllis Greenberg says: "Elementary children are mostly egocentric. This means what most greatly concerns them is their safety and that of their loved ones. In today’s discussions with your students, assure them that they will be safe, in light of the tsunami warnings, due to our geographic location, etc. You may want to tie the events in Japan into the science standards that relate to the ring of fire and the heightened probability of earthquakes in that region of the world. As a more long term response, you may want to empower the students to Think Like a Disciplinarian to gain knowledge of how the worldwide community draws together to support regions of the world that are impacted by natural catastrophes, e.g. Red Cross, UN, world governments, etc. For students who are extremely troubled, service learning and involvement in support of a relief organization would be helpful." (Via Orange County Council for Gifted and Talented (OCC GATE)) More helpful tips on how to help your child can also be found at  Everyday Intensity and Tech Savvy Mama. How have you talked with your child about the Japan earthquake and tsunami? Share your ideas here.