A traumatic experience can hold children back from becoming who they are meant to be. This can cause problems for those that are raising Christian kids!
At some point in life, everyone has to deal with a traumatic experience. Something that may be extremely traumatic to someone may only be a bump in the road for someone else.
God’s Word says that we will experience suffering. We live in a sinful world where bad things happen to Godly people. Unfortunately, we cannot protect our children at all times. However, we can cling to the hope we have in Jesus Christ, knowing that He has overcome extreme suffering and can heal our children and us from emotional and psychological pain or suffering.
If your child has experienced trauma, apart from getting professional help, here are some tips to help them:
- Reassure them that you love them and God loves them, and no matter what happens, it will be okay. Share with them the story of Joseph and how his brothers treated him (Genesis 50:20).
- Routine is important – maintain a scheduled routine. Go to bed and wake up at the same time. Eat dinner, do homework, exercise, read your Bible, as best as you can, on a schedule – predictability helps a child feel safe and secure.
- Always be honest and tell the truth. Make sure to do this in a way that will not possibly cause more fear.
- Look for triggers. Identify what upsets them and try to avoid those situations if possible. If a dog bit your child – make sure to not go to parks that allow dogs to run free. Also, never belittle a fear, or let other children make fun of a fearful child.
- Make sure to limit stimulants like sugar and caffeine. Help your child to learn relaxation techniques. Diet, rest, and exercise help the body, soul, and mind.
- Look for opportunities to have fun as a family. You may be able to replace hurtful memories with loving, fun memories.
- Watch uplifting movies and read fun books that have a happy ending. Try to stay away from stressful situations. Make sure your child is around positive, loving friends and family members.
- Make note cards, or post Bible verses around the house for your child to read.
4KIDS EPIC Training is a course that is designed to equip parents, teachers, or other caregivers to connect with kids who may have experienced trauma in their life.
Trust-Based Relational Intervention is a video by Dr. Karyn Purvis from the Institute of Child Development, that helps people understand how to nurture and relate to others who may have experienced trauma. 4KIDS uses this video in their training as well.
Forever With Jesus is one of my children’s books that teaches children that Jesus died for our sins and if you believe in Him, you will live forever with Him in Heaven. The book is about sin, salvation, death, and eternity.
Books Mentioned:
- Helping Your Child Understand Death: Children and Grief, by Joey O’Connor
- When God Doesn’t Make Sense, by Dr. James Dobson
- The Invisible String, by Patrice Karst
Bible Verses Mentioned:
Articles Referenced:
- “Helping Children Cope Emotionally After Traumatic Events and Experiences,” by Focus on the Family
- “Parenting in the Midst of Tragedy,” by Glenn Lutjens
- “Understanding and Coping with Trauma,” by Gail R. Schra
Get a cup of coffee, take about ten minutes to recharge your batteries, and equip your mind so you can raise warriors for Christ that will stand firm in the face of evil! Occasionally, we will be giving away free books – so stay tuned! My team and I are here to serve you all for the glory of our Lord!
