Supporting Our Children

The  Ministry of Education Website  (www.minedu.govt.nz) has the following message to parents and educators

The Christchurch earthquake has been frightening for everyone involved especially for children who may not understand what has happened. Children will try to make sense of what has happened and adjust to the changes that have happened to their homes and schools. Parents and teachers are very important supports for children.

How children respond to the earthquake depends on you and your ability to re-establish some familiar routines and explain calmly what has happened and why change is occurring (even though you might be feeling very stressed). You may need to explain this over and over again. Children might:

• want to be with you all the time and be a bit clingy
• need more reassurance than usual
• be scared that the big earthquake is going to happen again
• be tired and have trouble sleeping and eating
• be more frustrated and impatient than usual.

Be aware that children are most afraid that:

• the event will happen again, buildings and other things will fall down
• someone might be injured or killed
• they will be separated from you or the family
• they will be left alone.

The earthquake will result in a range of reactions and questions from toddlers, children and young people depending on their experience of the earthquake. Talking and listening is very important. Let your child/students know that you will all look after each other. It is important for parents and caregivers to give lots of cuddles and hugs.