Jenn Cougill-Harris
In-Home Services Program Director, Youth Villages

Extreme weather events like tornadoes, hurricanes or wildfires can often leave people with feelings of uncertainty and fear. Children can be deeply affected by these experiences, and it can be challenging for parents to know how to provide comfort and security in the aftermath while dealing with their own anxiety.

To help families cope, here are five tips on managing weather-related anxiety and supporting children through such events.

1. Supporting kids when you’re feeling anxious
   Many parents experience their own anxiety during extreme weather events, and one of the most crucial ways to prevent anxiety in your child is to manage your own. Kids are highly perceptive and may pick up on their parents’ fear or nervousness, which can amplify their own worries. Prioritize your own emotions, practice calming techniques like deep breaths and remember that staying calm will have the greatest impact on your child’s sense of safety. If you’re feeling anxious, it’s okay to talk with other adults or seek support but remember that your calm presence is one of the best tools for helping your child stay grounded.
2. Prioritize comfort and rest
   One of the first things parents should keep in mind is the impact of sleep deprivation on anxiety. After long, stressful nights of hearing sirens, sheltering in place or evacuating from your home, children and adults alike will be physically and emotionally exhausted, and negative emotions will be harder to manage. If your child is home, encourage them to take a nap. Avoid overwhelming them with too many detailed discussions about the weather event right away. Instead, focus on comfort and rest, and save those conversations for later when your child is able to better process the information.
3. Give children a sense of control
   You know what types of severe weather events are likely in your geographic area, and modern technology typically gives us a day or two notice that one is coming. As you prepare and walk through safety precautions with your family, give your child a sense of control over the plan. Ask them what they’d like to have in a safe space during a storm or ready to grab in the event of evacuation order. Some comforting items might include stuffed animals, blankets, snacks, card games or pillows. This helps your child feel empowered and reassures them that they can have some say in their situation.
4. Handle bedtime with patience
   Even after the weather calms down, bedtime may present new challenges, especially if your children’s most recent memory of sleeping includes being woken up to an emergency. Be patient with your child’s bedtime routine. Remind them that the dangerous weather has passed, and assure them that if anything changes, you will be there to keep them safe. Be open to talking through their fears, offering extra cuddles, and perhaps even leaving a nightlight on or staying in their room until they fall asleep.
5. Filter information to children
   As you stay weather-aware, try to limit the amount of information that reaches your child. If possible, use headphones to listen to alerts and updates. When you do share information, make sure it’s age-appropriate and reassuring. Remind your child that while it’s important to prepare for worst-case scenarios, those situations are rare and not likely to happen. Keep the conversation calm and optimistic, reinforcing that they are safe and protected.

Navigating weather-related anxiety is a challenging experience for both parents and children. With patience, understanding and clear communication, parents can help their children process their emotions and regain a sense of safety and calm.

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