20/05/2026
Navigating Fire Season: Supporting Our Kids (and Ourselves)
1. Model Calmer Waters
Children act as emotional barometers; they tune into our nervous systems to gauge how worried they should be. It is entirely okay to feel anxious, but try to process your deepest fears with other adults away from little ears. When you speak to your kids, use a calm, grounded tone.
2. Limit the Media âBackground Noiseâ
While staying informed is crucial for safety, having news broadcasts looping in the living room or constantly checking updates on your phone creates an atmosphere of chronic threat.
* Keep the news off when children are in the room.
* Distill the facts for them calmly, focusing on what is happening *right now* to keep them safe.
3. Focus on Action and Agency
Anxiety thrives on helplessness. Counteract this by giving children small, manageable ways to feel in control.
* Have them help pack a âcomfort bagâ with a favorite toy or book.
* Frame safety measures positively: *âWe are staying indoors today to give our lungs a rest and keep them strong,â* rather than *âThe air outside is toxic.â*
4. Create âIndoor Magicâ to Counteract Isolation
Being cooped up inside disrupts a childâs natural need for movement and play. When outdoor play is paused, intentionally shift the energy indoors. Build forts, host a family board game tournament, or do indoor yoga. Making the indoor time feel distinct and cozy can buffer the feeling of being trapped.
5. Validate, Donât Dismiss
If your child says they are scared, avoid rushing in with *âYouâre fine, donât worry.â* Instead, try: *âI understand why youâre scared. The sky looks strange today. But our family has a plan, and the firefighters are working incredibly hard to keep everyone safe. We are safe right here.â
A gentle reminder for the adults: You cannot pour from an empty cup. The collective anxiety of fire season is exhausting. Be gentle with your own capacity right now, lower your expectations for daily productivity, and lean into simple moments of connection with your family. We get through this by staying grounded together.