How to Talk to Kids About Wildfires in Los Angeles

Hossein Berenji, Jan 20, 2025

The wildfires tearing through Southern California, particularly in Los Angeles, are leaving families grappling with loss and fear. Thousands face the emotional toll of destruction, evacuation, and an uncertain future. While the crisis is challenging for adults, it can be tough for children to understand and cope with the chaos around them.

If your family is experiencing the aftermath of these fires or even just hearing about them in the news, it’s important to help your children understand the events without causing unnecessary fear. Some children have trouble processing such disasters, especially since they’re still developing an understanding of the world around them. Here’s how you can talk to your kids about the wildfires, according to our divorce attorneys.

Be Honest, But Keep It Simple

When talking to children about natural disasters like wildfires, it’s crucial to provide them with accurate information in a way that is appropriate for their age. 

For younger children, it’s best to keep things straightforward and reassuring. You can relay a constructive message to them: “Fires are very scary, but we are safe, and the firefighters are working hard to stop them.” Provide more detail for older children who may have more questions, but be careful not to overwhelm them. You can explain that, while wildfires can be dangerous, your family has plans in place to stay safe.

Acknowledge Their Emotions

A traumatic event like a wildfire can trigger a wide range of emotions in children. It’s important to validate these emotions by letting them know it’s okay to feel how they feel. Phrases like “It’s completely normal to be scared right now” or “I understand why this might make you feel upset” can help children feel heard and understood. When children are given the space to express their fears without judgment, they can better process their emotions and find ways to cope.

Keep Routines as Consistent as Possible

Even in the face of chaos, routines give children a sense of security. Predictability helps children feel less anxious during uncertain times. For older children, try to maintain their social and academic routines, even virtual ones. This can help them feel grounded, especially if they’re displaced or worried about missing out on their regular activities.

Empower Your Children With Action

In times of crisis, children can feel helpless, but you can reduce their anxiety by giving them a sense of control. Involve them in emergency preparedness activities so they can feel prepared if things escalate. A simple way to start is by practicing an emergency evacuation plan, which includes identifying multiple escape routes from the home and establishing a meeting point outside.

Assigning small tasks, like helping to pack an emergency kit or ensuring everyone knows the family meeting place, helps children feel involved and important.

You can also encourage them to express gratitude for first responders or get involved in community relief efforts by making cards for firefighters or donating to affected areas. These actions allow children to contribute positively, alleviating feelings of powerlessness.

Limit Exposure to Media

While it’s essential to stay informed, constant exposure to distressing images or videos of the disaster can increase fear and anxiety in children. Kids may not have the emotional capacity to process these images, and excessive exposure can worsen their anxiety. Instead, focus on calming activities like family board games, reading, or crafting to help restore a sense of normalcy. 

Divorce and Child Custody During Wildfires

During a wildfire crisis, divorced or separated parents face additional challenges in managing their children’s safety and emotional needs. The instability caused by the fires can make custody arrangements even more stressful. Here are some strategies to handle these situations:

  • Keep Communication Open: It’s important to stay in touch with your co-parent, particularly when evacuations are required. Discuss plans for your child’s care, where they will stay, and how to reassure them throughout the crisis.
  • Adjust Custody Arrangements if Necessary: Your child’s safety is the priority. You may need to change your custody schedule temporarily, especially if one parent is in a more secure location or facing evacuation.
  • Reassure Your Children: Let your kids know that both parents are doing everything they can to ensure their safety. Be honest but gentle when explaining the situation. 
  • Legal Support: If the situation makes it difficult for both parents to agree on changes to the custody arrangement, seeking legal advice may be necessary. Courts will generally allow temporary changes to custody to protect the child’s well-being during such emergencies.

By working together and ensuring a consistent, safe environment, separated parents can help mitigate the emotional strain of wildfires on their children.

Contact Berenji & Associates Divorce Lawyers If You Need Help

If you need a family lawyer or family law resources during this difficult time, we’re here to help.

Berenji & Associates Divorce Lawyers Los Angeles Office
550 S. Hill Street STE 1467
Los Angeles, CA 90013
(310) 271-6290

Berenji & Associates Divorce Lawyers Beverly Hills Office
9465 Wilshire Blvd #333
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
(213) 277-2586