more physical complaints for which no cause can be found, such as tummy ache or headache, being tired and other problems.

be scared that the trauma will happen again, or of other things they did not fear before, like dogs, strangers, being apart from caregivers.

not seem to be reassured when talking about the scary event and ask about it again and again.

talk about the frightening event more or have it in their play or drawings.

increased fear – for example, the child may.changed behaviour – some children might be more aggressive to parents or playmates.mood changes – the child might not seem to enjoy daily routines or activities they used to like or may seem more ‘shut down’, listless and withdrawn.new problems with basic skills like sleeping, eating, going to the toilet or paying attention – it may seem like they’ve slipped back (regressed) and got younger.new or increased clingy behaviour, such as following the parent around the house.Common preschooler reactions to traumaĬhildren’s responses to trauma can vary, but common reactions include: Your child may not react in the ways you expect.

A child’s response to a distressing or frightening experience will depend on their age, stage of development and personality, as well as the impact of the crisis on their parents, primary carers or significant others. Preschoolers do not understand what has gone wrong but are very sensitive to things not being right. Preschoolers know when things are not right A preschooler’s language is still developing, and they may not have the words to communicate what they feel, so it is important to look for other clues in their behaviour and the way they play to understand if the trauma has had an effect.

Life-threatening events such as car accidents, bushfires, sudden illness, traumatic death in the family, crime, abuse or violence in the community can cause trauma. Preschool age children can be seriously affected by trauma, just like older children and adults.

Signs emotional trauma in children