Every day, children face experiences that can change their lives.
Trauma can leave deep scars on children, impacting them in ways that aren’t always visible. But how children react to trauma varies from child to child.
“Trauma appears to be very different, has very different signs and symptoms depending on the age of the child,” said developmental psychologist Jessica Dym Bartlett.
Younger children might become clingy or lose skills. Older children might withdraw or show anger.
“It affects their brain development directly, affects their ability to handle stress and cope with stress in the future,” Bartlett explained.
Families and communities are navigating the healing process and helping children build resilience for the future, and parents play a key role.
“So, it has a lot to do with how parents self-regulate, and it has to do with creating positive experiences, keeping their children busy, helping them to self-regulate, meaning manage their own emotions,” said Bartlett.
Start by validating your child’s feelings, let them know they are safe and that they are not alone. And beyond family support, communities play a crucial role.
In crisis situations — whether it’s a natural disaster or a violent incident at home — first responders are often the first point of contact. That’s why many police departments are now working with trauma-informed specialists.
“When there’s kids involved, sometimes they don’t have the training or just the time to really address the trauma that the child may be facing. So that’s where we can step in,” said Haydi Franco, project director for the Trauma-Informed Policing Center.
These liaisons don’t just respond in moments of crisis — they also help families prepare for future emergencies.
“They bring that calming factor when they come into the households,” said police officer Wally Pognon.
That early support can be the first step in helping a child rebuild their sense of safety and control.
But the most important thing parents can do? Provide consistency — making sure their children feel supported, heard, and safe as they process their trauma.
Experts emphasize the importance of preparing children emotionally for potential future events, like hurricanes or wildfires, which are now exacerbated by a warming climate, by discussing emergency plans and reinforcing coping skills.
Parents can help by involving children in simple preparedness activities — such as packing an emergency kit, identifying safe meeting places, and role-playing different scenarios.
Teaching kids basic problem-solving skills and helping them develop a sense of control over their environment can reduce anxiety and build resilience.