For Parents

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You Can Ask

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In difficult situations, children experience stress and fear, just like adults. It can be hard for children to express their emotions. They may hide their own worries because they don't want to add to a parent's stress. Encourage your child to talk openly with you about the things that are bothering him. Whether your family is facing loss, fear, or upsetting events close to home or in the news, close communication can help you identify signs of stress in your child and help you find ways to cope with difficult times together.

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Quick Tips for Parents and Caregivers View all tips ›

Tips

#1 Be Aware of Your Feelings. It's normal to feel anxious, unsettled, or even helpless. Keep in mind that children respond to and learn from your reactions. Share Share via email Share via Twitter Share via Facebook
#2 Trust Your Instincts. You know your child best and will be able to pick up on slight behavior changes that could indicate stress. Share Share via email Share via Twitter Share via Facebook
#3 Ask Questions! Encourage your child to ask questions, too. Let her know that it's OK to express her feelings. Share Share via email Share via Twitter Share via Facebook
#4 Be Patient, Positive, Reassuring. Children want to know that you will care for them and that things will get better. Hugs help! Share Share via email Share via Twitter Share via Facebook
#5 Make the Most of Daily Routines. Mealtimes, errands, and ordinary moments offer great chances to talk with your child. Share Share via email Share via Twitter Share via Facebook
#6 Be Prepared. Planning for emergency situations as a family can reassure everyone. (Visit Let's Get Ready for tips.) Share Share via email Share via Twitter Share via Facebook
#7 Use Our Parent's Guide Find more tips and age-by-age ideas in the You Can Ask Parent Guide. Share Share via email Share via Twitter Share via Facebook
#8 Dealing with Natural Disasters Friends Care, a magazine about a hurricane on Sesame Street, offers parent information and activities to share with your child. Share Share via email Share via Twitter Share via Facebook

About This Project

You Can Ask was created in the wake of September 11, 2001 to help children deal with fear, stress, and shock. The project was expanded in partnership with Project Liberty, a special initiative set up through the New York State Office of Mental Health. You Can Ask offers video and print content to parents and caregivers to help them guide their children through stressful situations. To further support families, Sesame Workshop developed Friends Care after Hurricane Katrina. These resources help parents and children cope with natural disasters and other crises together.

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