Reply to 10 year old TERRIFIED of tornado

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[quote=Anonymous]I grew up in tornado alley.  I definitely have a healthy respect for tornados but I don’t live in fear, because I was taught tornado safety.  Pay attention to warnings, get as much protection as possible as low as possible, if nothing else is available, lay flat in a ditch and cover your neck.  When I was young, I “sheltered” in storm cellars, interior closets, bathtubs covered by a mattress, and school hallways in the duck and cover position.  In none of those cases, even though there were active tornados in the area, were any of those precautions put to the test, because the area they actually affect is relatively small.  Most watches won’t ever turn into warnings, and most warnings won’t hurt anyone.

Here’s some websites about tornado safety that provide more detailed information.  
https://www.weather.gov/safety/tornado-ww

https://www.ready.gov/tornadoes

Although official watches and warnings are by far the most reliable and effective cautions, it might be comforting to her to be aware of the physical signs that a tornado is imminent.  Even if no signs are observed, it’s important to take shelter when so advised, but once sheltered, I wouldn’t worry unless I noticed other signs.  There are several, but the ones I think are most noticeable are the incredible stillness and the eerie pressure in the air.  Here’s a state website that talks about some of the signs of a tornado.
https://www.readync.gov/stay-informed/north-carolina-hazards/tornadoes#Before-140

Also, I realize she’s focused on tornadoes, but once you’ve talked about safety and made your preparations (identified your place of shelter, made sure your phone is charged, checked your flashlight’s batteries, etc.), try to distract her and get her mind on other things if you can.  If possible, you want to break her out of her spiral where she’s working herself up more and deepening her fear.

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While I’m not especially afraid pf tornados, everyone gets scared sometimes.  Aside from your daughter’s specific tornado panic, she needs to be taught some general strategies for dealing with fear.  In case it might be helpful, what I’ve found most effective for me, personally, is to rely on my faith.  I remember the Bible verse Psalm 27:1 - “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” and then I pray for protection and courage.  I realize this method may not be helpful to those who don’t share my faith, but share whatever sources of comfort and courage you draw strength from with your daughter.

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