Supporting children in an emergency
Machine translation from Dutch, not yet checked by a clinician.
Children are more sensitive to fear and confusion in a crisis. Honesty, structure and reassurance are essential.
What to do
• Explain honestly what is happening, in language they understand
• Reassure children that you are doing everything to keep them safe
• Keep routines going as much as possible
• Give children small tasks — this gives a sense of control
• Keep children close to you
Do not do
• Do not hide information — children sense tension
• Do not react with anger or frustration to frightened behaviour
• Do not leave children alone in unfamiliar surroundings
Warning signs
• The child regresses severely or stops speaking
• The child behaves dangerously in reaction to fear
Get help if
• Weeks after the incident the child still has persistent sleeplessness, nightmares or social withdrawal
Why this matters
Psychological trauma in children during a crisis can have long-lasting effects if it is not taken seriously.
Source: Unicef Psychosociale Steun Richtlijnen · reviewed 2025-01-01