CRYING/MOANING

When a child has experienced trauma they may well have an underlying feeling of sadness, upset, unsettled and confused feelings, which can lead to them crying and moaning. They generally stop doing this when they feel safe, distracted by something funny and interesting that gets their focus or when they feel valued and heard.

Adults are less likely to do this and instead become depressed or withdrawn or angry and aggressive.

arwan-sutanto-542614-unsplash_1.jpg

WHAT ARE THE MOST HELPFUL THINGS WE CAN DO?

CHILDREN

  • Don’t tell them to snap out of it or stop crying as this scares them and validate their feeling of sadness or worry.

  • Speak to them on their level and ask them what they like to play with/enjoy

  • Help them feel safe by facilitating them to play with another child or known adult

  • Help them find some comfort and calm in something- a soft toy, a smelly thing or blanket or friend.