March 12, 2025

How to Help Kids Process Trauma and Feel Safe After a Disaster

40 minutes

How can parents create an emotionally safe space for their child when their home is no longer secure? Environmental crises like the LA fires have displaced families, leaving parents navigating uncertainty while trying to comfort their children.

Today, I’m joined by fellow pediatrician Dr. Harvey Karp, who experienced the loss of his own home, to discuss how we can support children in processing trauma and building resilience after life-altering events.

We discuss:

How parents can support children through difficult experiences by acknowledging their emotions, using age-appropriate language, and allowing them to express their fears and grief in a safe environment.

That acknowledging emotions and using age-appropriate language can help children express fears and grief in a safe environment

How to help them regain a sense of control and security after traumatic events

To connect with Dr. Harvey follow him on Instagram @happiest_baby and check out all his resources on https://www.happiestbaby.com and purchase his best-selling book The Happiest Baby on the Block

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00:00:00 The Emotional Impact of Natural Disasters on Kids

00:01:05 Understanding the Grief of Losing a Home

00:03:06 Navigating Loss as a Pediatrician, Parent, and Community Member

00:05:46 What Helps (and Hurts) When Supporting Someone After a Disaster

00:09:27 Talking to Kids About Natural Disasters Without Creating Fear

00:12:05 The Power of Emotional Validation in Parenting

00:17:19 Helping Kids Cope with the Aftermath of Trauma

00:22:51 Encouraging Kids to Be Helpers and Build Resilience

00:26:22 Teaching Kids About Environmental Stewardship

00:33:55 Final Thoughts: Creating Connection Through Loss

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By Dr. Mona Amin

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