How to Explain Natural Phenomenon to Kids

Kids hear about natural phenomena all the time listening to adults, watching television or at school. This makes them curious about what is going on and why. For these reasons, they ask their parents for answers. They need to understand what's going on in the world and how it affects them to help calm their fears of the unknown. Kids have vivid imaginations and when they don't understand why natural disasters occur, it makes things worse and gives them more reason to be fearful.

Things You'll Need

  • Videos about the phenomenon

Instructions

    • 1

      Consider the age of the child before you begin to explain a natural phenomenon to him. Is he old enough to understand the details associated with the event and how things occur or will being too technical make him even more confused? When dealing with younger children under the age of five, think of comparisons that will help them understand without scaring them. Be as brief as possible.

    • 2

      Ask your child what he already knows about the subject. This will give you a place to start and you'll be able to correct any beliefs your child may have that may not be accurate.

    • 3

      Take your child's questions and fears seriously. Children are curious and want to understand. It's important to them. In addition, it can be frightening to hear about tornadoes or floods killing people and not know why. It makes them fearful that it's going to happen to their family.

    • 4

      Answer questions as honestly as you can and explain that natural phenomena, although they do occur, are rare and that special circumstances must be in place for these unusual events to take place.

    • 5

      Stay calm and don't let emotions take over when explaining natural disasters to children.

    • 6

      Do not go into any unnecessary details. This will make children more confused or instill unnecessary fears.

    • 7

      Watch the news with your child when he is old enough. This way, you'll know exactly what he sees and you can discuss it at the time something is happening

    • 8

      Look for the answers together when you don't know the answer to any questions your child has about a natural phenomenon. Don't speculate.

    • 9

      Express how you feel about certain events and why you believe they occur but make it clear that this is your opinion, not a fact.

    • 10

      Never, under any circumstances, lie to your child or mislead him in any way when explaining natural phenomena. This will create problems in the future when he learns the truth.

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