When a natural disaster strikes it impacts entires communities for years. I remember living in Middle TN when tornados ripped through Murfreesboro on Easter weekend. Years later I still had students panic during tornado drills, cry at the sounds of rain and families that were rebuilding their lives and homes.
Facing a crisis may be one of the hardest things a counselor can face. Not only are you taking care of your clients, students, faculty members, and families, but you are also taking care of yourself.
Here are some of my favorite resources to help you and others after a natural disaster.
Picture books for children:
Hurricane by David Wiesner
Once I Was Very Very Scared by Chandra Ghosh Ippen
Clifford And The Big Storm by Norman Bridwell
When Worry Takes by Liz Haske(Author)
Me And My Fear by Francesca Sanna
A Terrible Thing Happened, by Margaret M. Holmes and Sasha J. Mudlaff
Jenny Is Scared: When Sad Things Happen in the World by Carol Shuman
Flood by Alvaro F. Villa
Activities to partner with the books:
Check out my list of mindfulness resources here.
CLASSROOM YOGA: Mindfulness Yoga Poses for Kids + Calm Corner Sensory Break By WholeHearted School Counseling
Mindfulness Dog Breaths: 24 Breathing Techniques By Mental Fills Counseling Tools
Trauma Workbook and Healing Counseling Activities by Mental Fills Counseling Tools
Coping Skills Activities Interactive Calming Strategies Lap Book By Counselor Keri
Worry Ninja Power Cards By School Counseling Files
CBT Worksheets: Feelings Thermometers and Thought Maps By Social Emotional Workshop
The Things I Can Control and Can’t Control FREE Poster! By WholeHearted School Counseling
Small group resources:
Group Counseling Routines By The Responsive Counselor
*It is imperative that students find safety and security with routines at school after a tragedy.
Counselor – GRIEF Small Group Ideas By The Counseling Teacher Brandy
Stress Management Activities Group Counseling Program Interactive Notebook By Counselor Keri
School-wide and teacher resources:
10 Tips For Crisis Response Counseling By The School Counselor Is In
Trauma Sensitive Classroom Rules & Expectations Poster *In Our Class We…… by Whole Hearted School Counseling
Books for adults:
Healing Your Grief When Disaster Strikes: 100 Practical Ideas for Coping After a Tornado, Hurricane, Flood, Earthquake, Wildfire, or Other Natural Disaster by Alan D. Wolfelt
Pawsitive School Counselor 
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