Our hearts are with all of the families impacted by the unimaginable tragedy that occurred in Central Texas. Texas is our home, and we stand with every child and family as our communities grieve and rebuild.
Supporting children through natural disaster is an important step in recovery. Whether it’s a flood, tornado, or wildfire, these events can be frightening and confusing, especially for our little ones.
Here are some tips to help children process and recover after a natural disaster:
Stay Calm and Reassuring
Children look to adults to understand how to feel. When you stay calm, it helps them feel safe.- Acknowledge the scary parts, but focus on hope and recovery.
- Remind your child that they are loved and cared for, and that things will get better.
- Explain the disaster in kid-friendly language so they understand what happened. (“Floods happen when there’s too much rain at once and it cannot drain correctly, so it moves into places it wasn’t meant to go.”)
Acknowledge and Normalize Their Feelings
It’s okay for kids to feel scared, sad, or even angry. These are normal reactions to abnormal events.- Encourage them to share what they’re feeling without forcing it.
- Let them know it’s okay to be upset, and that their feelings matter.
- If they express worries about safety (for themselves or others), take those seriously and offer reassurance.
Build on Support through Friends & Routine
Friendships can be a powerful source of healing.- Encourage your child to spend time with trusted friends or classmates.
- Peer connections help reduce feelings of isolation and boost emotional strength.
- Maintaining a routine for kids helps them feel stable in a time of uncertainty and let’s them know that life keeps going.
Don’t Forget About You
In order for your child to succeed, they need a calm, supported parent or caregiver to feel secure.- Take time for your own emotional needs too.
- Connect with other adults, rest when you can, and avoid turning to unhealthy coping tools like alcohol or excessive screen time.
Know When to Get Extra Help
Most children will bounce back with time and support, but some may need more.- If your child continues to struggle with sleep, appetite, behavior, or emotional distress after a week or more, talk to a pediatric professional.
- Schools, counselors, or pediatric mental health professionals can help.
Our expert pediatric teams are here for your family and ready to support you however we can. Our clinics are open every day, including holidays, late nights, and weekends for your convenience. Click here to find your nearest clinic and book your next visit.
Stay safe, stay strong, stay healthy.
Resources:
Emotional/Mental Health Support (free, confidential, 24/7):- Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC) Texas Flooding Emotional Support Line: +1 (833) 812-2480
- TELUS Health Crisis Support Line: +1 (877) 757-7587
- HHSC Tips for Youth: Managing Stress After a Natural Disaster (PDF)
- Texas Youth Helpline: +1 (877) 966-9114
- 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 9-8-8 or chat at 988lifeline.org
- 211 Texas: Call 2-1-1 or +1 (877) 541-7905 (housing, food, transportation, and health service)
- The American Red Cross of Central & South Texas
- FEMA Disaster Assistance: Learn more & apply
- Texas Health and Human Services – Receiving Disaster Assistance
- Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country: Kerr County Flood Relief Fund
- Central Texas Community Foundation: WILCO CARES
- American Red Cross
- World Central Kitchen: Texas Flood Relief
- Austin Pets Alive: Learn more & donate
- Texas Search and Rescue (TEXSAR)
FAQ
Q: How can I tell if my child is struggling after a natural disaster?
A: Look for changes in sleep, appetite, mood, or behavior. Younger kids may become more clingy, while older children might withdraw or act out. If symptoms last more than a week, consider professional support.
Q: What should I say to my child after a disaster?
A: Use calm, simple language. Acknowledge what happened, let them know they’re safe, and encourage them to talk about how they feel without pressure.
Q: When should I seek professional help for my child?
A: If your child’s emotional distress continues beyond a week or gets worse over time, it may be time to talk to your pediatrician or a mental health provider.
Q: Can Urgent Care for Kids help with emotional support?
A: While UCFK primarily treats physical health concerns, our providers can help guide you to the right mental health resources and ensure your child’s overall well-being.
Q: How can I help my child build resilience after a traumatic event?
A: Encourage healthy routines, supportive peer relationships, and open emotional communication. Highlight their strengths and the ways your family has overcome challenges in the past.
At a Glance
- Stay calm and reassuring: Children take emotional cues from adults.
- Normalize their feelings: Let kids express emotions without judgment.
- Lean on friendships: Peer support reduces isolation.
- Care for yourself too: Your emotional health matters.
- Know when to seek help: Persistent distress may need professional attention.
