The Scared Child: Helping Kids Overcome Traumatic Events

Is your child afraid?

There are many traumatic experiences that cause a child to becomescared--from divorce to the death of a loved one, from naturaldisasters to abuse. Even a disturbing news event that a child onlysees on television or hears about but does not experience, such asthe Oklahoma City bombing or the classroom massacre in Scotland, can make a child fearful or sad. No matter what causes thesituation, childhood trauma is common and should be dealt withquickly and effectively.

Dr. Barbara Brooks, a psychologist who has successfully helped kidsthrough all types of traumatic situations, provides you with theknowledge you need to put the child you love back on the path to afull and happy life. Kids don't always know how to react tofeelings of distress. If these scared feelings are not expressed ina positive way, they can surface later in life when dealing withthem becomes more difficult.

Here are detailed instructions, based on professional techniques, to encourage kids of any age--from toddler to teenager--to revealtheir feelings through words, drawings, and role playing withstep-by-step advice for reassuring them and helping them let go oftheir fear.

Barbara Brooks, Ph.D., is a pioneer in treating childhood trauma. She and her colleagues have used the techniques in this book to help children in the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew and the World Trade Center bombing. Dr. Brooks is currently Clinical Director of the Employee Counseling Program and a principal in Trauma Recovery Associates. She also maintains a private practice in New York City. Paula M. Siegel is a freelance writer. Both authors live in New York City.