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Hey friends, welcome back to the blog.  Last time I talked about getting through trauma.  I am going to continue to explore getting through trauma by talking about helping support children after a traumatic event.

Children Experience Trauma

Just like adults, children can experience traumatic events.  This can range from natural disasters, death of a loved one/pet, various forms of abuse, life-altering illnesses, hospitalizations, car accidents, bullying, parental separation, and any other deeply distressing or disturbing experience.  

Children can react to traumatic experiences in a variety of ways.  Some of the most common signs include behavioral changes, intense and ongoing emotional upset, physical symptoms like headaches and stomach aches, sleep problems, nightmares, blame, fear, and signs of regression.  In addition, often we see a sudden loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed doing.

It’s important to recognize that children often internalize trauma in ways that may not manifest as traditional “symptoms.” For example, a child who has experienced a traumatic event might struggle with separation anxiety, fear of the unknown, or have difficulty trusting others, especially if the trauma involved someone close to them, like a family member or a teacher.

Supporting our Children

There are several ways to help support children with coping after a a traumatic event.  

First and foremost, establishing a safe space for children.  Spend time reassuring them that they are safe and establishing security.  This also includes making sure basic needs are being addressed and met.  Let the child know you are there for them, both physically and emotionally. Be available to listen when they are ready to talk, and reassure them that they are safe.  Encourage expression by providing a safe space to express feelings.  This can be done in ways like drawing, playing, or telling stories.  It is also important to validate feelings that are shared.  Helping children to name their feelings and that their feelings are understandable.  

Next, try your best to maintain routines.  While it’s natural for routines to shift during times of crisis, as much as possible, try to maintain regular schedules for meals, bedtime, school, and activities. This consistency can bring comfort to a child who feels overwhelmed. Establish a predictable routine and create or maintain structure.  Having a daily routine and knowing what is coming and expected can help reduce worry and fear that can come from unknowns.

Try your best to remain calm (yourself).  Be patient, children can experience a lot of behavior changes, they can be whiny, clingy, aggressive, they may push boundaries to test limits.  Staying calm yourself, not taking behaviors personally, and regulating your own emotions to maintain patience can help children feel safer.  Children learn a great deal by observing the adults around them. Demonstrating how you manage stress and negative emotions—whether through breathing exercises, journaling, or seeking support from others—can help children build their own emotional toolbox.

Create a healthy environment.  This includes finding ways to reduce stressors, limiting sugar and stimulants, getting enough sleep and rest, and finding ways to help them relax.  

Physical activity: Exercise can be a great way for children to release pent-up emotions and regain a sense of control over their bodies. Encourage physical play, sports, or simple outdoor activities like walking, hiking, or riding a bike.

Foster resilience and hope:  Encourage children to focus on their strengths and how they’ve overcome challenges, both big and small. This can help them see themselves not just as survivors of trauma, but as individuals with agency and control over their future.
Engage children in activities that give them a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Whether it’s helping out at home, taking part in hobbies, or volunteering, these activities can help children find meaning and direction.

Let them be kids.  This means letting them have ways to enjoy themselves.  Encourage them to do activities and play with others.  Distractions are good for them and can help them feel a sense of normalcy.  

Seeking some professional help or guidance.  Seek support for children and yourself.  This may include involving loved ones, teachers, and counselors.  If needed, consider therapy.  Trauma focused CBT therapy and EMDR can help support children coping after trauma.  

In the End

Healing from trauma is a journey, and each child’s path will look different. Some may show signs of recovery quickly, while others may take longer to process their feelings. The key is to be patient, provide a consistent and supportive environment, and encourage healthy coping strategies.

Ultimately, the goal is to help children feel safe, understood, and empowered to heal from their trauma and move forward into a brighter, more hopeful future. As caregivers and support systems, our role is to walk alongside them—offering stability, guidance, and unconditional love.

Thanks for reading, until next time.

Emilie Barragan, LCSW

“Tackling physical and emotional pain” – Therapeuo Health