A traumatic event is a frightening, dangerous or violent experience that threatens a child's safety or the safety of someone close to them. Most children recover with support, but some develop lasting problems that need treatment.
Examples of traumatic events
Serious accidents, natural disasters, sudden or violent loss of a loved one, physical or sexual abuse, witnessing violence at home or in the community, serious medical procedures, and school or community violence can all be traumatic for children.
Common reactions
In the days and weeks after a traumatic event, children may:
Be fearful, clingy or worried about their safety
Have nightmares or trouble sleeping
Re-enact the event in play, or talk about it repeatedly
Avoid reminders of what happened
Be irritable, jumpy or easily startled
Have trouble concentrating at school
Complain of stomachaches or headaches
Return to younger behaviors, such as bedwetting or thumb-sucking
Teenagers may withdraw, take risks or feel guilt or shame.
How parents can help
Restore safety and routine as soon as possible. Predictable meals, school and bedtimes tell a child that life is steady again.
Stay close and available. Extra comfort and time together are appropriate.
Listen and answer questions honestly, in words that fit their age, without forcing them to talk.
Limit exposure to news coverage and repeated images of the event.
Be patient with changes in behavior, while keeping usual expectations as much as possible.
Look after yourself. Children read their parents' reactions, and parents may need support too.
Signs a child needs professional help
Seek an evaluation if reactions are severe, get worse instead of better after a month or so, or interfere with school, friendships or family life. Signs include ongoing nightmares, constant fear, avoiding many places or activities, angry outbursts, emotional numbness, or talk of self-harm. Children who have experienced abuse or repeated trauma should be seen by a professional.
Effective treatment
Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) is one of the best-studied treatments for children and teens after trauma. Other approaches, such as child-parent psychotherapy for very young children, also have research support. Look for a therapist with specific training in trauma treatment for children. The National Child Traumatic Stress Network has information for families.
If you suspect a child is being abused, contact your local child protective services or the police. In an emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number.
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This guide is general information, not medical or psychological advice. For questions about your child, talk with a pediatrician or a licensed mental health professional. In a crisis in the US, call or text 988 or call 911; elsewhere, call your local emergency number.