Images of the recent destruction wrought by the Asian Tsunami have saturated our media since Christmas, so it’s only to be expected that children will be affected by what they’ve seen, heard or read about. Here are a few suggestions on how to talk to and reassure your children in the coming weeks and months.

Reassurance
Children may not understand the distances involved in this disaster and may believe that the impact of the Tsunami is much closer to home. This may be particularly true for anyone living near the sea – they may not realise that this event is a one-off. Take the time to reassure them that they and their loved ones are safe. But remember, when you do so, not to brush off their fears too lightly; it's just as important to recognise and validate their feelings as it is to explain why they don’t need to be afraid.

Comfort
Now is a time for as many hugs and kisses as you can muster. Children crave comfort when they’re anxious or worried. Take time out to cuddle them and encourage them to talk about their fears or concerns if that’s what they want, or just let them be reassured by you if they don’t want to talk about it.

Routine
It’s particularly important that you maintain your routine in a time of worry or upset. Children pick up on adult fears and the best way of setting their minds at rest is to stick to your daily routines. Keep bedtimes the same, but if it helps to resurrect an old toy or favoured soother then don’t worry if your child wants to regress a bit.

Worriers
If you know that your child is a worrier, keep an eye out for less obvious questions which might reveal that they’re still worrying about this disaster. Questions such as; ‘Did the people have any warning?’ might suggest that they’re worried about the same thing happening to them.

Explanation
If your child asks about the Tsunami, what it was and how it happened, use clear and brief explanations while reinforcing in their heads the rarity of such events and the remoteness of a similar event happening here.

Empathy and charity
Much of the news has focused on the disaster’s youngest victims – particularly children being orphaned or injured which will have a particular resonance for our kids. Children have a natural empathy so it’s important both to encourage a sense of empathy and channel it in the right direction. You may find it useful to suggest that you both go down to your nearest Oxfam or charity shop to donate some money in person to help the relief effort. This should go some way to soothing them and making them feel useful in the face of this tragedy.

Donate money online
To donate money to the Tsunami Disaster appeal online through Oxfam click here.