Storm Advice - Tips to Help Kids Who Fear Storms

9/6/2019 (Permalink)

As with most children, Mother Nature can sometimes invoke fear and anxiety. Luckily, there are ways to decrease their fear.

As with most children, Mother Nature can sometimes invoke fear and anxiety. It is very common for kids to fear storms. Luckily, there are ways to decrease their fear. It is truly about preparing them with the expectations before it happens. Ideally, this will help them develop coping skills, and in return, decrease their fear and anxiety.

Education is power. Teaching children to face their fears in small steps becomes a survival skill. The more you educate them on storms; children will learn to not always associate storms in a negative way. 

It is possible to change their negative thoughts into positive thoughts. When they hear lightning and thunder, tell them it is movie night or pizza night. The next time they hear lightning and thunder, they will remember a happy experience. Consistency is key!

Focus on safety and prevention especially with younger kids. They need to hear that they are safe. This is especially important with larger storms that could possibly cause a lot of damage if in its path.

It is important to communicate that there are people who help others during a storm. For example, SERVPRO of West Erie County Storm Team is currently active helping others at Hurricane Dorian.

Once the children hear this, it becomes easier for them to associate storms and safety together to decrease the fear. It may take some time for their mind to reprogram, so don't forget to leave the night light on for a good nights' rest! 

If storms in your area leave you with unwanted water or damage, call SERVPRO of West Erie County for help at (814) 806-1987.