ow much and what type of information the
child can understand is affected by the child's age, cognitive and personality
characteristics and the context in which information is given.
Most children will be able to cope with what they have experienced
There is no right or wrong way to process information about the
disaster, and children will differ considerably in their ways of handling
this material.
Many, but not all, children will want or need to talk to parents,
teachers, guidance counselors or peers about their experiences and
feelings.
There may be changes in a child's behavior, including:
Not wanting to return to school
Clinging behavior, not wanting to leave the parents' side
Fears about separation from parents/guardians
Problems sleeping such as nightmares, screaming during sleep, or
bedwetting
Not being able to concentrate
Being grumpy, irritable or jumpy
A change in behavior such as misbehaving in school or home
Physical complaints such as stomachaches, headaches, dizziness
ow much and what type of information the
child can understand is affected by the child's age, cognitive and personality
characteristics and the context in which information is given.