Disaster
[Pin It]
Action Plan 1: Supporting Children’s Needs Following a Disaster
This week, you have been learning about the ways that children are continually influenced by the world in which they live, particularly the microsystem of the family. You have also learned that microsystems are not the only source of influence on children’s development. Sometimes changes in the larger world—t he chronosystem—also impact the microsystems of family, school, and community.
As the world entered the 21st century, a number of events and tragedies have greatly affected the lives of children and families. In the United States, acts of terrorism, natural disasters, the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and greater economic uncertainty have brought about dramatic changes. The increased presence of the mass media in everyday life brings traumatic events into nearly every home, often in real time, potentially increasing their impact on every microsystem. Supporting young children and advising families in how to meet children’s needs in the face of these challenges is often part of the work of early childhood professionals.
For your first Action Plan, you will think about the ramifications of such events by exploring the effects of Hurricane Katrina, which impacted the lives of young children in New Orleans, Mississippi, and Alabama through physical and emotional distress. This distress was further exacerbated by Katrina-related challenges faced by their families, such as finding housing and jobs. For some families, these challenges have continued over a period of years. Lessons learned from Katrina about how we can support young children and their families can be applied to many situations.
Action Plan Professional Scenario: Imagine you are an early childhood professional working with young children and families in the Gulf region who are still struggling with the effects of Hurricane Katrina.
Before you create your Action Plan, consider:
What does an early childhood professional need to know in order to understand the situation and needs of these children and families?
What ideas and advice from experts may be useful in assisting children and families?
What can early childhood professionals do to help, either directly, by suggesting activities and advice, or by referring the family to other community resources and professionals?
The following steps will help you address the above points and, in turn, create an Action Plan that may be useful in your future work.
1. What You Need to Know: Learning About the Impact of Katrina
Review and reflect on the following four resources. The first article was written immediately after Hurricane Katrina. The other articles provide updates on the current situation for some victims of Katrina.
