If possible, include the entire family in the discussion. Include children in recovery activities so that they understand that everything will be all right. Avoid inactivity and try to get back to routine. As time passes, it is important for parents to be sensitive to changes in their child's behavior - especially subtle changes that may indicate distress. Children may become more fearful, complain of physical ailments such as head and stomach aches, become clingy, not wanting to leave their parents, lose bladder control, fear of strangers, or return to outgrown habits such as thumb sucking and bedwetting.
Parents can best help children cope by understanding what causes their anxieties and fears.
Children should be reassured with firmness and love. Again, communication is a must. Encourage children to share their feelings and listen to them. Children will realize that life will eventually return to normal. If a child seems unable to resolve feelings of anger and pain, parents should seek help from a mental health specialist.