Early Childhood: Ages 5 to 11

Emergency Preparedness Plan

Appendix H

EARLY CHILDHOOD: AGES 5 TO 11

Regressive behaviors are especially common in this age group. Children may become more withdrawn and/or more aggressive. They might be particularly affected by the loss of prized objects or pets. Verbalization and play enactment of their experiences should be encouraged. While routine expectations might be temporarily relaxed, the goal should be to resume normal functioning as soon as possible.

REGRESSIVE REACTIONS

Increased competition with younger siblings for parent's attention
Excessive clinging
Crying or whimpering
Wanting to be fed or dressed
Engaging in habits they had previously given up

PHYSIOLOGICAL REACTIONS

Headaches
Complaints of visual or hearing problems
Persistent itching and scratching
Nausea
Sleep disturbance, nightmares, night terrors

EMOTIONAL/BEHAVIORAL RESPONSES

School phobia
Hyperactivity
Withdrawal from family contacts
Irritability
Disobedience
Fear of wind, rain, etc.
Inability to concentrate and drop in level of school achievement
Aggressive behavior (e.g., fighting with friends and siblings)
Repetitive talking about their experiences
Sadness over losses

POSSIBLE RESPONSES

Give additional attention and consideration: physical comforting
Gentle but firm insistence on more responsibility than the younger child: positive reinforcement of child's age appropriate behavior
Temporarily lessen requirements for optimum performance in school and home activities
Reassurance that competency will return
Provide play sessions with adults and peers
Rehearse safety measures to be taken in future disasters
Encourage/Attempt to integrate experiences
Encourage child to verbalize feelings of loss: to "grieve" loss of pets or toys

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