Traumatic Events

Tamariki (children) think deeply about things, but might not always have the words or skills to describe how they are feeling following a traumatic event (including natural disasters like flooding and earthquakes). Find out how you can help them and discover some resources about how to talk to kids about trauma.

Following a traumatic event like a natural disaster, it is normal for tamariki (children), rangatahi (young people) and adults to have strong feelings, reactions, and changes in behaviour. Tamariki learn from their parents’ responses, as well as what they see and hear in the media.