2.02 Child Development

Essential Question: How can children be made to feel save and secure during times of crisis?

DC Ch 21 pp. 599-607; Ch 20Rev 12/11 kbbrown

Learning Log Entry

• Define Crisis

• How can a crisis challenge a family?

• How can a crisis make a family stronger?

Name some crises that affect a sense of safety:

Accidents and Illnesses

• Give an honest explanation on the child’s level to understand

• Reassure that the person will soon be well again (if they will recover)

• If the illness is serious, tell the truth in a calm, reassuring way

• Reassure the child they did nothing to cause illness/accident

Death is a basic part of life• Allow children to talk and grieve

• Explain at the child’s level what happened

• Explain well enough so child does not expect the loved-one to return

• Reassure children they did not cause the death

• Maintain the child’s routine

Divorce- 10% of children live with a divorced parent

• Keep activities and routines as normal as possible

• Do not discuss problems of divorce with child

• Give honest answers

• Explain custody plan to children old enough

• Develop new traditions

Divorce (cont.)

• Never give false hope of reuniting

• Help children stay in touch with friends

• Watch for changes in child’s behavior

• Work with the school to help children adjust

Domestic Violence

• Be a support person for the child

• Get help from family and local domestic violence agencies

• Seek counseling

• Work with the school for the child’s safety

Job Loss/Financial Difficulties

• Avoid arguing about money in front of the children

• Avoid hiding financial problems from older children

• Be clear about the possible consequences of the problems and the need to cut back on spending

• Live below your means

Relocation/Family Move- 20% of the population moves each year

• Point out positive reasons for moving; be honest and mention both positives and negatives

• Explain what will happen in each step of the move• If possible, visit the new location with the children

before the move• Let children help with packing• Spend more time with the children before and

after the move

Substance abuse-drugs and alcohol

• Parents can draw from support groups with people in the same situation

• Talk to school counselor, trusted teacher, or religious leader

World events-natural disasters, terrorism

• Have a plan and practice with your children

• Seek safe shelter• Keep children safe• Talk to them and let them know what is

happening• Seek counseling• Reassure children

Resources and Agencies for Help

• United Way- A national network of local organizations that work to strength families and communities through help with education, income and health.

• Red Cross- International organization dedicated to medical care and humanitarian care during wars and natural disasters

More agencies and organizations

• Social services- state government agency that provides assistance to people in the community

• Employment Security Commission- a state government agency that helps people find jobs

• Health Department- an agency that provides medical care for those who need help

• Faith-based groups- provide spiritual, volunteer, financial and community support