Supporting Children Through Trauma After Wildfires
Recent wildfires in the Los Angeles area have profoundly impacted local communities, leading to lasting psychological effects, particularly on children. Research confirms that exposure to such crises, including natural disasters, can lead to both immediate and long-term adverse outcomes for young individuals. These can manifest as emotional instability, anxiety, and issues with concentration and sleep, among other responses.
The Psychological Impact of Wildfires on Children
Children may react differently based on their level of exposure to traumatic events, which can range from direct experience to viewing distressing news reports. Regardless of how they encounter the trauma, their reactions can vary in timing and intensity; some may show symptoms immediately, while others might not express distress until weeks or months later.
Dr. Lori Baudino, a licensed clinical psychologist and board-certified dance/movement therapist, notes the profound effects that losing a home, experiencing displacement, or having disrupted routines can have on a child’s mental health. She emphasizes that children may exhibit:
- Increased irritability and anxiety
- Disruptions in sleep and eating patterns
- Mood swings and a lack of motivation
- Changes in academic performance
- Physical symptoms, such as headaches or breathing difficulties related to environmental factors like smoke and ash
Research suggests that repeated exposure to trauma can heighten the risk of developing mental health challenges later in life. This underscores the critical need for timely intervention and support systems for children affected by such catastrophic events.
Strategies for Support
For caregivers, reassurance is a vital first step in helping children regain a sense of safety. Here are several strategies that can be utilized:
- Provide comforting physical interactions such as hugs or cuddling for younger children.
- Encourage discussion about feelings and observations while answering questions in an age-appropriate manner.
- Promote the expression of emotions through art, writing, or conversation, allowing children to process their experiences creatively.
- Maintain everyday routines and encourage participation in recreational activities to provide stability.
- Acknowledge and express your own feelings about the trauma to normalize these experiences for children.
The F.I.R.E. Approach
To further aid in the healing process, Dr. Baudino advocates for a comprehensive strategy she has termed F.I.R.E. This framework includes:
F – Friends and Family
Encouraging connections with family and peers can provide critical emotional support. Activities such as shared meals, outings, and sports can help ground children during distressing times.
I – Instill
Focus on present-centered grounding techniques to help children stay connected to the current moment. Guide them to recognize their immediate surroundings through sensory engagement, helping to foster a feeling of safety.
R – Regulation
Recognizing that each child has unique self-soothing techniques is essential. Pay attention to their preferences and adapt strategies to assist in their emotional regulation effectively.
E – Engagement
Promoting physical movement is key to emotional expression and regulation. Engaging in physical activities together not only nurtures emotional health but also strengthens interpersonal bonds.
Conclusion: Pathways to Resilience
As Dr. Baudino emphasizes, while traumatic events like wildfires pose significant challenges, they also present opportunities for post-traumatic growth. With appropriate support, children can develop resilience, improve their coping strategies, and forge stronger social connections. This process can empower them to navigate future adversities more effectively.
Through informed and compassionate guidance, caregivers can play a pivotal role in helping children rebuild their emotional foundations in the aftermath of trauma.
© 2025 Dan Mager, MSW
