After August 20, some helicopters were seen carrying relief to flood-affected areas. Second-grade student Ivana quickly ran to her mother and asked: “Are the windows closed? Bullets will come in!”
When the door slams shut in the stormy wind, six-year-old Pia starts screaming. No words, just screaming. The parents struggle to explain to her that “nothing happened, it’s just the wind.”
On the way to school, eight-year-old Rishi, seeing Lake Road closed every day, says: “Is there still a curfew on this road?”
Just a month ago, he did not even know these words, let alone their meanings.
Recently, children have picked up words like bullets, curfew, fear, prohibition from the discussions of adults at home about the anti-discrimination movement and the violence that followed.
Psychologists say it is natural for these fears to affect their behaviour. In such moments, it is the responsibility of parents and the people around them to reassure the children in their own way and create a sense of safety.
When unrest occurs in the country and violence spreads, it creates all kinds of uncertainty. Its impact on children often goes unnoticed.
At such times, it can be difficult for parents to understand how to help their children, as they themselves are also experiencing trauma.
According to wall writings from students involved in the movement, experts say that in such times, ensuring the physical and mental security of children and guaranteeing a safe environment for them is crucial.
For young children (under 10 years old), it is essential to explain any situation in simple language. Instead of thinking “what will they understand,” pay attention to whether what they understand is correct. Speak to them in clear and gentle language. If they ask about what’s happening outside, don’t avoid the topic or say nothing. You can say something like: “Some people are angry at the bad guys outside. Once their anger calms down, we will go out.”
In this situation, the United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) has mentioned some important points.
They say that staying together during this time is essential. Ensure that children do not stay away from their parents for long periods. There is no need to hide the situation from the children. Talk about the issues in a way that they can understand.
And for the younger ones, in order to ensure their safety, parents should stay with them as much as possible. The child should not be left alone. The child should always feel safe, according to Unicef.
During the movement, Unicef mentioned in a Facebook post: “We are deeply concerned about the well-being and mental health of children in light of the recent violence in the country.”
Considering the mental health of children, Unicef took necessary steps at that time, stating in the post: “Over the past few days, the number of calls to the Unicef-supported Child Helpline 1098 has increased by 250%.”
The post also thanked the 300 trained social workers who went door-to-door to provide necessary assistance to children in difficult situations.
It is important to pay attention to whether there are any changes in the mental health of the children.
Observe what kind of games they are playing, and what words they are using when talking to their friends.
When they go to the rooftop or nearby playground, it’s important to know where they are going and when they’ll return.
At the same time, constantly reassure them. You must reassure your children about their safety and make them believe that you will do everything possible to keep them safe.
Fear spreads fear, courage spreads courage. Parents being fearful has affected their children, said Helal Uddin, associate professor at the National Institute of Mental Health.
“Children have been infected by the fear of their parents. Over the past month, they have heard many words that are new to them. They need to be taken out of that environment and returned to their previous state. After sitting at home in fear for a long time, their fear has increased. Now, as soon as there’s an opportunity, they need to be taken outside to normalize their environment,” he added.
Farhana Mannan, who works with child development, believes that in order to return children to a normal state, parents first need to be aware of their own mental health.
If adults remain calm, and their behaviour reflects peace, the children will also calm down. In this case, the role of family members is the most important, she said.
“Adults often discuss situations directly and present decisions in front of children. Instead of doing that, children should be made aware of the situation. There’s nothing to hide. They should be made to understand that whatever the situation may be, it can be managed,” Farhana added.