Try to help your children or grandchildren decrease their “safety behaviors.” These are the things they do that make them feel a little better but don’t really do anything to keep them safe, including checking the forecast or asking about heading to a shelter. Just be careful that the sources you choose focus on the storms themselves, rather than dwelling on the destruction they may cause. Learning more about the weather and understanding what causes a storm can help ease some children’s anxiety about when a storm may happen. Books, websites, or other resources that discuss weather are a good place for your children to learn more. Reassure them that you will do whatever you can to keep them safe. Talk to them about what your family will do during a storm-even if you are outdoors or away from home.
Storm it themselves how to#
How to ease fearsįor some children, it is comforting to know the plan for staying safe in a storm. It can be wearing on parents, too, as the children look for constant reassurance that there is not going to be a storm. This stress can get in the way of other aspects of their lives, such as schoolwork, because the fear makes it hard for them to concentrate. They may try to avoid outdoor activities. Many young children are hesitant to leave the house if they think they may get caught in a storm. That anticipation can result in ongoing stress and anxiety. For some children with a significant fear of storms, the problem comes not so much from a storm itself, but from the anticipation of a storm. For children who are particularly sensitive to noise or light, thunder and lightning can be particularly challenging. If, however, you find that their fears of storms do not improve, or if the anxiety begins to interfere with daily life, consider having them talk with a therapist or counselor.ĭuring a storm, it is reasonable for a child to seek comfort from a parent or caregiver. There are many things you can do at home that may ease their anxiety. It’s common for children to be afraid of storms. Do you have children or grandchildren who become anxious and agitated whenever it storms? If so, there are ways to help them overcome their fear of strong windes, thunderstorms, and tornadoes.
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