If you or a loved one worked in disaster and recovery relief during the recent LA wildfires, you understand the toll it takes on your body, mind, and family. While you were focused on helping others, your own family—especially your children—likely faced their own challenges. The fires’ impact on several schools in Pasadena and Altadena has added further stress by disrupting daily routines and affecting the emotional well-being of many families in the area. This article offers six practical tips to help you and your family recover and move forward together.
- Prioritize and Protect Dedicated Family Time: After the stress of disaster response, spending time with your family is vital. It helps you reconnect, recover emotionally, and provides your children with the comfort and stability they need. Even small moments together—like sharing a meal or reading a book—can strengthen bonds and support healing. Tip: Plan ahead and schedule time specifically for your family, just as you would for work or other commitments. Try to set aside time at least once a week to focus entirely on your family, closing out the rest of the world.
- Have Fun Together as a Family: Having fun as a family isn’t just about enjoyment—it’s about healing, bonding, and creating positive memories after difficult times. Laughter and play help reduce stress, build resilience, and remind everyone that joy is still possible, even after hardship. Tip: Look for interactive activities that you can all enjoy and that have positive benefits for physical or emotional health, such as walking, hiking, cooking, or playing games. While being together for “parallel activities” like watching TV can have some benefit, interactive activities are generally more beneficial.
- Create Family Celebrations and Traditions: Family celebrations and traditions provide a sense of stability, belonging, and joy—especially after times of crisis. They give children something to look forward to and help anchor families in shared values and memories. Celebrating affirms family members and helps everyone focus on the positive, even during difficult times. Tip: Find ways to mark milestones and accomplishments, adding creativity or humor to both ordinary and special events. This can look like a special birthday ritual, annual family gatherings or a new holiday tradition.
- Establish Predictable Family Routines: Predictable family routines offer structure and security, especially during uncertain times. For children, routines help reduce anxiety by letting them know what to expect. For parents and caregivers, they provide a sense of control and stability. Tip: Consider having regular mealtimes together, bedtime rituals, or regular family check-ins. Providing visual reminders of these routines such as a poster board or digital notification can help children predict what will happen next as well as keeping each family member accountable.
- Involve Children in Family Decision Making: When children feel heard and understood, they feel like a valued part of the “family team.” It builds their confidence, teaches responsibility, and strengthens communication. Even small choices, like helping plan a meal or family activity, give kids a sense of control and belonging. Especially after stressful events, involving children can help them regain stability and feel more connected to the family’s recovery and routines. Tip: Seek out opportunities for children to give feedback on everyday choices. Offer simple, age-appropriate options to make decisions manageable. Explaining the reasons behind decisions can help children build understanding and meaning in their actions.
- Learn the Signs of Stress in Your Child: Recognizing the signs of stress in your child is crucial because children often struggle to express their feelings verbally. Stress can affect their behavior, emotions, and even physical health, impacting their well-being and development. By learning to spot changes like irritability, withdrawal, changes in sleep or appetite, or sudden mood swings, you can respond early with support and reassurance. Understanding these signs helps you address their needs promptly, fostering a safe environment where they feel heard and cared for, especially during challenging times. Tip: Regularly observe changes in a child’s behavior and physical health. Listen carefully and ask open-ended questions to encourage them to share their feelings. Maintain open communication and spend quality one-on-one time together. If stress signs persist or worsen, seek help from a healthcare professional.