Supporting Children after Disasters

Class Details

Supporting Children after Disasters

Children are exposed to many challenging situations. The frightful events of the last century are almost commonplace and new challenges threaten the daily lives of children. Most children in the twentieth century had never heard the word “terrorism.” Yet, the children of the twenty-first century know first-hand the meaning and implications of that word. Supporting children after disasters – natural, man-made, and hybrid – is a specialty for some disaster responders. It is collateral duty for other responders. Either way, we know that children are impacted by all these disasters, and we know that meeting children's needs are a little different than the needs of adults.

What You'll Learn

• Foundation of disasters and crises
• Foundations for supportive action for children
• Relevant theory and research to support children after disasters
• ACEs, Erickson, Bowen, Cannon
• Children's reactions to disasters
• Post-traumatic stress, acute post-traumatic stress, PTSD
• Effect of trauma on learning
• Screening for basic needs, safety, social support, and referrals
• Supportive actions – techniques, family support, collaborative support
• Profession supportive services
• Unique supportive actions
• Keeping fit as a Children's Disaster Responder