1. FAMILY CRISIS NOTES

2. Accidents/Illness of Family Members  Honest explanation of what is happening geared to their ability to understand  If the person is sick and will recover the child should be reassured the person should soon be well again  If the illness is serious adults should tell children the truth in a calm, reassuring way.  Reassure that nothing they did caused the accidents/illness  Children sometimes overhear the wrong things about accidents/illness

3. Divorce  10% of all children currently live with a divorced parent  Keep things as normal as possible  Parents should not discuss problems of divorce with children  Give children honest answers  Explain the custody plan to children who are old enough  Develop new traditions  Never give the child false hope of parents reuniting  Help the children stay in touch with friends  Watch for changes in the child’s behavior  Work with the school to help your child adjust

4. Death  Basic part of life  Allow children to talk and grieve  Explain at the child’s level what has happened  Explain well enough that they do not expect person to return  Children need to know that they did not cause the death  Maintain the child’s routine

5. Domestic violence  Be a support person for the child  Seek help from family and local domestic violence agencies  Seek counseling  Work with the school for the child’s safety

6. Job Loss/Financial Difficulties  Make a special effort not to argue about money in front of children  It is important not to hide financial problems from older children  Parents need to be clear about possible consequences of the problems and the need to cut back on spending

7. Relocation/Family Move  Point out the positive reasons for moving  Be honest about the move, mention bad as well as the good  Explain each step that will happen as they move  If possible, take children to see where they are moving  Let children help with packing  Plan to spend more time with children before and after the move

8. Substance Abuse-Drugs and Alcohol  Parents can draw from support groups with people in the same situation  Talk to school counselor, trusted teacher, or religious leader

9. World Events- Natural Disasters, Terrorism  Seek safe shelter  Keep children safe  Talk to them and let them know what is happening  Seek counseling  Reassure children