How to talk to children about disasters

For many Australians, the potential threat of bushfires, floods and cyclones is synonymous with where they live and work. Teaching them about these disasters – what causes them and how we can keep ourselves safe when they occur will normalise the threat and help alleviate the stress. Having emergency plans and practising them assures children of their own safety and that of their family, friends and pets.   

Whether it’s bushfires, flooding or a storm, emergencies can strike at any time without notice, especially if you live or work in areas prone to these natural events. Whether at home or in the classroom, talking with children and getting them involved in creating an emergency plan by giving them specific, manageable and age-appropriate tasks can help them feel reassured and gives them a sense of control in the face of the unknown.  

Children have a right to truthful information, but adults are also responsible for keeping them safe from distress. Be honest about what is happening but use age-appropriate language, be mindful of their reactions and be sensitive to their level of anxiety. If you don’t know the answer to their questions, use it as an opportunity to explore the answers together.  

Start by asking your kids’ permission to talk about what is troubling them. Follow their lead, and if they don’t want to discuss it, don’t push it. Some children may be eager to talk about their concerns, while others might find it difficult. Don’t dismiss or avoid their concerns. Be sure to acknowledge their feelings and assure them it’s natural to feel sad or scared when disasters occur. Just remind your children that they can speak to you, their teachers and other trusted adults whenever they like.  

Children need to know about the acts of bravery, generosity and kindness of ordinary people trying to help families impacted by disasters. Sharing stories of volunteer first responders, community leaders and everyday Australians showing compassion can be comforting and reassuring. You can also show them the young climate activists who are raising awareness around climate change and what they are doing to make a difference.  

With so much talk about climate change in the media, it's not surprising that more and more children and young people are feeling worried or anxious about the state of the world and what the future holds for our planet. It is when these worries stick around and start consuming their everyday life, that's when we might be dealing with anxiety. With the right kind of tools and support, we can help young people work through climate anxiety.