Jane Atkinhairstylist to the stars and owner of OUAI, is one of hundreds of Los Angeles residents affected by the current onslaught of wildfires.
Over the past few hours, Atkin has used her Instagram platform to share the results.
On Tuesday, January 7, Atkin vacated the home she shared with her husband, children and dogs. Now she is asking for advice.
“I'll take any advice you have on how to explain to these kids that we're not coming home,” Atkin asked her followers.
“My cribs, my blankets and my stuffed animals are here,” she said along with a photo of the ruins that were once her home.
It's a conversation many are having this week amid the devastation.
according to Ashley Etheridge and Dandelion Family Consultationsit is only important to “share enough information.”
“If a child witnesses a fire, or its aftermath, it may be helpful to share only brief, factual, age-appropriate information,” Etheridge wrote. “Children need a way to make sense of scary or confusing news and integrate it into their brains.”
In addition to sharing what's necessary with your children, Etheridge adds that parents should “validate” their children's feelings.
“Checking in on a child’s feelings is always important. This creates safety and connection. You might be thinking, ‘Finding out about the fire could be scary.’ My job as a parent is to keep you safe.”
It may also be helpful to give your child a purpose by helping people affected by tragedy in the community, Etheridge wrote.
“Sometimes children and individuals may feel helpless after a fire.” By making donations or bringing food and water to firefighters, he can help children “regain some sense of safety and control.”
the International Association of Fire Fighters He also reiterates the importance of maintaining as regular a schedule as possible for children.
“During chaotic or emotional times, it is important for your child to remain consistent with mundane routines, such as pick-up and drop-off schedules and family meals,” the FIFA reports, addition Giving children more of your time and attention can be helpful as they interact.
“These rituals help convey a sense of normalcy to your child and send the message: ‘Even though this tragedy occurred, I am still here for you and your world does not change.’”
and City of Petaluma He suggests encouraging children to talk about how they feel.
“Let the children talk about the disaster and ask as many questions as they want. Encourage the children to describe how they feel. Listen to what they say.”
It is important that we stay together.
“While you search for housing and assistance, you may want to leave your children with relatives or friends. Instead, keep the family together as much as possible and make children a part of what you do to get the family back on its feet,” the city of Petaluma said.
“The children are anxious, and they will be worried that their parents won't come back.”
verify LAFD website For local wildfire alerts click here for resources About how to help those affected.
