Talking to Children about Hurricanes

by | Aug 27, 2011 | Child Therapy, children, children self help, crisis intervention, hurricanes, natural disasters, parenting, parents, Play Therapy, trauma

Wondering how to talk to your children about preparing and the effects of hurricanes? Sesame Street has developed a hurricane tool kit to assist parents and children in talking about and preparing for a natural disaster. There are 5 videos, each discussing different aspects of preparation and also tips on dealing with the aftermath, such as having a routine, finding support, and self care. I watched several of the video clips, each about 15 minutes long, and they show realistic emotions, preparations and after effects. You can check out www.sesamestreet.org, click on the parents section and click on the tool kits tab. There are other topics addressed as well. As a therapist, I appreciate the approach that the folks at Sesame Street took on dealing with a disaster that can cause lots of instability for children and their families.

So, Who is this Book for Anyway?

by | May 19, 2008 | abuse, Child Therapy, children, domestic violence, natural disasters, Play Therapy, trauma, trauma workbooks

I have had many questions about my book, Sam Feels Better Now, over the past few months. Who is it for? Is it for parents? Is it for therapists? Is it for the child to read?  People want to know how this book will make the most impact on a child’s life. It is the intention of this book to be a tool for therapists, and other adults who may be working with children who have experienced a variety of issues. These issues include experiencing a crisis, traumatic event, or grief.  Sam’s character experiences something scary or awful, and it is intentionally left up to the reader to define what that is. That way, children who experience many different situations can relate to Sam’s character. Examples of children who will benefit are those who have experienced abuse, domestic violence, natural disasters, or car accidents. Therapists and caregivers may find this book useful for other situations children experience that are not listed here.