Children are not small adults. They process trauma differently, often without words. A child who witnessed violence might seem fine—until the nightmares begin, or the tantrums, or the bed-wetting.
Mental Health First Aid Israel provides specialized training for parents, teachers, and caregivers. Key principles include consistency, calm presence, and validation.
Children need routine. After chaos, the predictability of mealtimes, bedtimes, and school schedules becomes a psychological anchor. They also need adults who can remain calm—even when they feel anything but. A child takes cues from the adults around them.
Validation means acknowledging a child's fear without amplifying it: "I know that was scary. I'm here. You're safe now."
Art, play, and storytelling offer children pathways to process trauma indirectly. MHFA Israel encourages families to follow their child's lead, watching for what they express—and what they don't.
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