Watch your child for cues, such as a deep relaxed breath or the cessation of crying or trembling, a stretch, a smile, or the making or breaking of eye contact. This usually indicates the end of any cycle that may be existing at that moment in time. Do not stir up discussion about the accident. There will be plenty of time for telling stories, drawing pictures or reenacting the incident at a later time. Validate your child's physical responses through this period of time.
Children often begin to cry or tremble as they come out of shock.
Parents often desire to dive in and stop the crying or trembling. Resist the impulse to do this. This physical expression needs to continue until it stops on its own, or at least levels itself out and comes within the child's control, which may take only a minute or so. Your task at this moment is to let your child know that the crying and trembling are normal healthy reactions. These small phrases can help immensely.