Help kids make sense of world events

The recent tsunamis, or series of huge waves, in southern Asia continue to have ripple effects around the world. Children unfamiliar with tsunamis may now fear such devastation in their own backyards, regardless of where they live. Through exposure and teaching, we can help to lower their anxieties, teach them about the environment, as well as create emergency preparation and response plans. With a plethora of photos and video footage being shown, children may also be worrying about youth and their families who were directly affected by the tsunamis. There are ways that children can support relief efforts to those countries now in need.

Let kids know the facts. Tsunamis are extremely dangerous natural disasters, but in the United States and much of the world there are warning systems in place to keep people safe. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) presents facts about tsunamis on its Web site, FEMA for Kids. It includes pages from a picture book all about the tsunami warning system and exactly how it works. National Geographic Kids also offers information on tsunamis and how they form.

The National Tsunami Hazard Mitigation Project works to “reduce the impact of tsunamis through warning guidance, mitigation and hazard assessment.” With a long list of valuable links to a variety of agencies, they offer learning materials, activities, and books for preschool through high school. Kids can learn which areas of the country are at risk for tsunamis, the alert systems in place, and the proper response for safety during a crisis.

Older kids, parents, and teachers can also visit the International Tsunami Information Center’s Web site, which offers answers to frequently asked questions, preparedness resources, factsheets, curricula, and more.

The American Red Cross and the International Red Cross are highly involved in supporting families’ safe and healthy development. The Red Cross offers a number of strategies for families to prepare themselves and their home for safety in emergencies; see Family Disaster Planning. In addition to their "How To Create a Personalized Safety Plan," they also offer tips for safety and survival while awaiting public assistance. Go there today, plan with the people in your home and increase everyone’s chance for safety. Additionally, they offer resources for educators; check out Masters of Disasters. The Red Cross also has many programs centered around youth as leaders and service providers. See what they offer you and your community’s youth!

Kids and adults who are interested in making donations to the relief efforts can visit the Red Cross online or see the U.S. Agency for International Development’s list of organizations that are accepting donations toward their work in those areas affected by the earthquake and tsunamis.

Page Updated: December 29, 2004