5 Ways to Calm a Child During Thunderstorms


The sun was shining brightly this afternoon when suddenly we heard thunder. I looked out the window and saw a big group of black clouds not too far from us. "Another thunderstorm," I told my son.


 Image courtesy of antpkr at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

It's wet season here in the Philippines so rain isn't uncommon during these months. However a few weeks ago we experienced a phenomenon that we haven't had before - a little frightening for the little one and disturbing for us adults. One afternoon, after a hot morning, the sky turned very black and the light show started. Every 10 seconds a lightning strikes and thunder followed roaring loudly that it woke up our son who was napping. He started to cry.

A number of children are afraid of lightning and thunder. Most of the time it's because of the sudden noise it brings that get them startled. We as parents can help them stay calm during these times. Here are some tips you can do at home:

1. Reduce the noise
Kids get startled with sudden loud noises. You can help them ease by closing the windows to soften the sound of thunder that enters your house.


2. Assure their safety
Calmly assure and help them understand that by staying indoors and being around them will make them safe.


3. Make a science lesson out of it
While assuring them their safety, gear up with scientific facts about lightning - explain why they happen, ways you can do to be safe, and share how tall buildings and airplanes take precautionary measures.


4. Storytelling
Grab a book that your kid loves and start reading to them. You can also choose a story about the weather. Better yet, gather the whole family for a storytelling session. It's a great way to spend time and cuddle.


5. Hug them
As parents we want our children to toughen up even with thunderstorms. It is important to hug and assure them that it's okay to be afraid; that sometimes we are just afraid with what we don't understand. Let them feel your love through your hug. Kiss them. Also, guide them how they can make this frightful situation into a fun experience.


Do you have any tips to share? 

Comments

  1. My 5-year-old daughter is also afraid of thunderstorms. When the thunder starts to clap, I just tell her that it's Thor visiting us. Hehe! :)

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    1. That's an interesting way to make it fun! Kids love the Avengers (and adults, too!). :)

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  2. my twins aren't even two years old yet, so a simple strategy worked: I made the thunderstorm fun/funny! only one of them got really scared of thunder, so when there's thunder I'd say, "anong sabi ng kulog?" then make a funny thunder noise with matching facial contortions and shaking of head: "bruduguduguduGUG!" and she'd laugh and forget about her fear. after a few thunderstorms using that tactic, she's not afraid anymore! :)

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    Replies
    1. That's so cute! It's great that you've started them at a young age to make this experience a fun one. :)

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