Earthquake and children

Earthquake is a natural disaster that is difficult to understand especially for children. Physical, psychological and social symptoms such as fear, anxiety, infantilization, loss of appetite, sleep problems, restlessness, abdominal pain and nausea may occur in children. In this process, it is important for parents to control their internal and external triggers, to plan for the moment of crisis beforehand, and to look at what can be good in order to calm themselves down. Since children will take their parents as role models, our anxiety may also reflect on them. At this point, it may be necessary to explain to children over the age of 6 what the earthquake is, what can be done before and after the earthquake, and the precautions that can be taken. On the other hand, earthquake drills can be performed for younger children by playing games and without scaring them. While these are being explained, it should be conveyed to the child that the place or building we are in is safe. The child’s questions, if any, should be answered and their feelings, thoughts and body sensations should be discussed. It is also possible to talk about what can be done about the issue that he is worried about and what can be good for him.
Unfortunately, there is the reality of earthquakes in our country. For this reason, it will be beneficial to take protective and preventive measures. You can prepare an earthquake kit with older children and talk about what can be done in which environment about your emergency plan.
I hope it will not happen again, but without ignoring this fact, it is useful to strengthen our psychological resilience.