AMARILLO, TEXAS -- The September 11 tragedies were terrifying times for everyone. But even eleven years later, many parents are still terrified by the idea of explaining such a tragedy to their children.
Despite how hard or difficult it might be, groups like Family Support Services in Amarillo say it’s important to talk to your children about any tragedy or crisis they, their family, friends or even our nation might be facing.
When explaining what happened on 9/11, counselors recommended saying things like “it’s okay to be sad”, or “these people were hurt, but their families are okay”. Depending on the age of the child, a parent should include more or less detail when describing what happened. One of the most important things to convey to a child when explaining a tragedy is to make sure they know and understand that they’re safe.
“Of course the smaller the child, the less detail you need to put in there,” explained Family Support Services LPC Counseling Intern, Cheryl Carroll. “Just validate their fears. You may not understand what they’re feeling or why they’re feeling that but just try to validate their feelings and help them to see that they are safe and they’re secure. That’s really what children need to know.”
Parents might also want to consider making or drawing a safety plan with their child to help comfort them. That can include names and phone numbers of the parents or other trusted people they can call if they ever feel afraid.
Family Support Services does offer a program to parents called PATH (Parents As Teaches and Healers). Parents can use the program to learn how to better understand and deal with their children.
