Helping Very Young Children Cope After a Trauma

After a serious injury or other traumatic event, most young children recover well over time. A trauma is something scary, painful, or upsetting that happens suddenly.

Young children may not understand what happened. Their brain and body are still learning how to feel safe again. Because of this, you may see changes in your child’s behavior. These changes are often normal, and they get better with time. Your support helps your child feel safe and calm as they heal.

What to Look for at Home

Some behavior changes are normal after a trauma. Get support if these changes affect daily life OR last longer than one month.

You may notice your child:

• Is harder to comfort.
• Is afraid to be away from caregivers.
• Is quieter or less interested in play.
• Seems less happy or more worried.
• Acts more aggressive with others.
• Has trouble sleeping or eating.
• Replays scary events during play.
• Goes back (regresses) to earlier behaviors like thumb sucking.

What You Can Do to Help

Go back to your normal daily schedule. Routines help lower fear and stress.

• Help your child explain their feelings. For example, “You look scared.”
• Give safe ways to share feelings. Try drawing, pretend play, or telling stories. Reading children’s books can also help.
• Stay calm and patient. Offer extra hugs and comfort.
• If your child is whining, model the voice you want them to use. Say, “I can’t understand you. Can you use your strong voice?”
• If your child is hitting or hurting others, set clear limits. Tell them, “We use gentle hands because hitting hurts people.” Then guide them to another place or activity.
• Answer questions in simple words. Keep answers short and repeat them if needed.
• Respond when your child needs attention or comfort. Say, “I am here,” “I will take care of you,” or “I love you.”
• Take care of yourself too. When you stay calm and get support, your child feels safer.

Hospital Resources

• Trauma social workers and pediatric psychologists are part of your child’s care team during their hospital stay. They support children and families after an injury or trauma.
• If you have concerns about how your child or family is coping, tell your child’s medical team. Ask them to contact Social Work.

After leaving the hospital, you can contact:

Nationwide Children's - Columbus

• Trauma Team Social Workers: 614-722-6300
• Psychology: 614-722-4700
  Monday through Friday, normal business hours
• Behavioral Crisis Line (Emergency):  614-722-1800
  Available after hours
  Call right away if you're worried about your child's safety

Nationwide Children's - Toledo

• Psychology: (567) 368-1311
  Monday through Friday, normal business hours

You can also contact 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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