It is normal for children to be afraid, especially after a natural disaster. The fear may last for an extended time and is best handled with kindness and understanding from parents and other adults. Research indicates that children's fears vary according to age, maturation and previous learning experiences. Four major fears common in children are death, darkness, animals and abandonment. Children's fears may be intensified when adults refuse or are reluctant to discuss them with children.
Many families ban all painful topics from family conversation.
Such strategies inflict high costs in terms of intensified despair and negativity among children. To help children cope with fears, adults must take the time to talk with children. They may hit, throw, kick to show their anger. Become more active and restless. Be afraid of the disaster recurring.