These interventions are designed to foster emotional expression, instill a sense of empowerment and stability, strengthen support networks, and build resilience in children coping with wildfire-related trauma. 1. "Feelings Fire Extinguisher" Activity
Purpose: To help children manage overwhelming emotions and develop coping strategies.
Materials: Red construction paper Markers Template of a fire extinguisher printable below
Activity:
1. Provide the child with the fire extinguisher template and explain that it symbolizes ways to "cool down" or manage strong emotions.
2. Work with the child to write or draw calming strategies on the extinguisher (e.g., deep breathing, counting to ten, talking to a trusted adult). More things to do to cope. Get ideas from this Coping Skills printable HERE
3. Practice using these strategies together, emphasizing how they can "extinguish" emotional flames when they feel overwhelmed.
Click on image to print:
2. "My Shelter of Strength" Collage
Purpose: To help children visualize their resilience and the supports that keep them safe.
Materials: Magazines pre-cut images of strength, safety, being with family, friends and pets Glue Scissors
Large paper
Markers
Activity:
1. Have the child draw a house or shelter on a large piece of paper.
2. Ask them to fill the house with pictures, words, (from magazine clippings) or draw something that represent things that make them feel strong, safe, and loved (e.g., family, friends, favorite activities, pets).
3. Discuss how each item or person provides stability during difficult times and how they can rely on these supports.
3. "Calming Jar" Intervention
Purpose: To create a tangible tool for self-soothing and mindfulness during times of stress or anxiety.
Materials: Clear plastic jar or bottle Glitter glue Water Glitter, and food coloring
Duct tape
Activity:
1. Help the child fill the jar with water, glitter glue, glitter, and a few drops of food coloring.
2. Seal the lid tightly, cover top with duct tape (so they do not drink) and shake the jar to mix the contents.
3. Teach the child to shake the jar when they feel stressed, watching the glitter settle as a way to calm their mind and body. Teach breathing strategies to do while watching the glitter "feelings" settle.
4. Discuss how, like the glitter settling, their thoughts and feelings can also calm with time and patience.
Watch Just Breathe Video
4. Creating a "Safe Place" Sensory Box
Purpose: To help children regain a sense of safety and control after displacement.
Materials: A small box (e.g., shoebox) Soft fabric Stress ball Calming scents (e.g., lavender sachets or lavedar oil bottle) Pre-printed Photos of loved ones or pets
Small flashlight Rocks or Crystals Gum or lollipops
Activity:
1. Allow the child to decorate the box as a personal "safe place."
2. Encourage them to select or create items that provide comfort or remind them of stability. Encourage them to think about the 5 senses: sight, smell, touch, taste and sound.
3. Teach them to use the box when feeling overwhelmed or anxious, grounding them in theese sensory-based coping strategies.
5. Storytelling and Art Therapy: "My Wildfire Story"
Purpose: To help children process their experiences and express emotions related to the wildfire in a non-threatening way.
Materials: Paper
Crayons
Markers or paint
Activity:
1. Invite the child to create a story or draw pictures that represent their wildfire experience.
2. Incorporate positive elements, such as heroes (firefighters, family, or themselves) and how they found safety.
3. Discuss the story or artwork together, focusing on resilience and the child’s strengths.
Adaptation: Use pre-made story templates or comic strips for younger children or those hesitant to express themselves.
6. Building a "Transition Tree"
Purpose: To provide children with a visual representation of support and stability during times of change.
Materials:
Large paper or poster board
Markers
Stickers
Pre-cut paper leaves
Activity:
1. Draw a large tree with empty branches.
2. Write the child’s support systems (e.g., parents, teachers, siblings, friends) on individual leaves.
3. Help the child place the leaves on the tree, symbolizing their sources of strength and connection.
4. Discuss how each "branch" or "leaf" contributes to their overall well-being and helps them through challenges. Things to do to cope. Get ideas from this Coping Skills printable
Follow-Up: Add new "leaves" as the child builds new connections or achieves milestones in recovery.
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