How to Talk to Kids About Disasters
A week after the tragedy in Japan began, it’s still impossible to turn the TV on or glance at a newspaper without seeing…
By Reader's Digest Editors
A week after the tragedy in Japan began, it’s still impossible to turn the TV on or glance at a newspaper without seeing dramatic images of the earthquake and tsunami’s aftermath, as well as frightening scenes of the ongoing nuclear crisis. And if we’re seeing these photos and videos, we can be sure our kids are too. Kids, from small children to teens, may be curious, concerned, or even terrified by what they’re seeing. Instead of trying to dodge reality, keep these tips in mind when discussing difficult events in the news with kids:
1. Validate their …ver más…

Kids are afraid for the people affected by the disaster and they’re scared something similar will happen to them. Once you’ve discussed how and why the tragedy occurred, explain to your child that adults are working very hard to take care of the people affected and to make sure everyone will be safe. Reassure them that while we can’t prevent natural disasters from occurring, they happen very rarely and that right now no one he loves is in