Many children, like adults, will believe that something is wrong with themselves for feeling the way they do. They will need reassurance that their feelings are normal reactions to an abnormal situation. Finding out that their fellow students have had many of the same reactions also can be a great relief. Control rumors and correct any myths they may have. During disasters, there is an information vacuum.
People often fill it by passing along rumors.
Also, students may have some mistaken ideas about reactions to disasters. The vast majority show initiative, courage, reluctance to take charity, and willingness to help others. Give them an opportunity to help in the disaster relief work. Many of our students, fortunately, have been spared from severe losses. You may encourage these students to offer help to their neighbors in need.