Having Difficult Conversations with your Child
The fear and sadness surrounding the flash floods in Central Texas continue to spread as quickly as the water rose, leaving parents struggling to find the words to discuss this with their children. Explaining such a tragic incident as the Texas flooding can be difficult, but it’s necessary to help them regulate their emotions.
How Parents Can Talk to Kids About Tragic News
1. Start with an overview
Begin by summarizing the events in straightforward terms: cities and campgrounds were flooded when the Guadalupe River overflowed due to rainfall. Make it clear that even in areas like “Flash Flood Alley,” this was a rare occurrence. This will help your children understand the magnitude without making it seem like a constant threat.
2. Tailor your approach depending on your child’s age
Children process crises based on their developmental stage, so keep in mind what the ideal ways are to handle difficult topics to a child depending at the stage they are at.
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- Children (Ages 4-8) Focus on reassuring and speak in simple terms. Explain how some residents had to flee their homes because of a large rainstorm that caused a river to overflow. Ensure them that they are safe and there are many people helping these individuals. To reduce their anxiety, use a map to show them that the area is far away from their home. Avoid giving them too much information. Answer all their questions calmly.
- Preteens (Ages 9-12) Children in this age group are particularly curious and ask more directly about deaths or damage. Don’t be graphic but be honest. Give them a truthful explanation of what happened and encourage them to share their emotions. Allow your kids to come up with ideas for helping, such as sending rescue responders a thank-you note. This will reduce feelings of helplessness.
- Teenagers (Ages 13-18) Teens are able to comprehend more emotional and social consequences. Encourage open discussions, acknowledge their feelings, and engage in conversations about the situation. If they want to watch the news, watch it with them. Ask your kids how they would like to contribute, such as by volunteering, planning drives, or spreading awareness on social media. Knowing they can contribute to the solution might help them.
No matter what their age, children benefit significantly from reassuring words, calm demeanors, and a willingness to listen.
3. Recognize feelings and create space
Kids may experience sadness, confusion, or fear. Remind them that it’s acceptable to be angry. An example could be, “It’s normal to feel worried when we hear about people losing their homes or pets.” Establish a secure environment where they can express their concerns and ask questions.
4. Stress activity and safety
Assure them that you are keeping them safe by keeping an eye on weather alerts, having emergency plans, and being aware of safe locations. Describe how groups of volunteers, National Guard members, and rescuers are working nonstop to assist families and animals.
5. Teach empathy
Talk to your child about acts of community service, such as pets being airlifted to safety, shelters set up for displaced families, or rescuers arriving by plane to save campers. This shows them how people unite when the community is in need.
6. Channel grief into hope and action
Think about offering to help those directly affected by the Texas flooding by sending letters to families or rescue volunteers, gathering donated goods, or by creating encouraging notes or drawings. This will help them channel their emotions into constructive action.
Parents: Be Mindful of Your Own Feelings
Parents should understand that they are also influenced by events. How have the Texas flooding or other recent news affected your thoughts and feelings? Recognize your own uncomfortable feelings and share some of those feelings with your son or daughter, based on their age. Despite the horror of this event, it can be a valuable teaching moment for a child or teenager.
