Explaining the government shutdown to children

47 ABC – Furloughed workers aren’t the only ones feeling the effects. 47 ABC spoke with a local psychologist about the effects the shutdown can have on families, specifically children.

Dr. Kathryn Seifert says that children have a tough time accepting things they don’t understand. She also says that the best thing a parent can do is be honest and depending on their age, limit the details.

But ultimately, she says the parent’s goal should be to reassure their child that it’s not their fault. “What’s going on what’s good what are you having challenges about and discuss that with the family so everyone can see everyone has challenges but here’s how we’re going to manage it, we’re going to manage it together and we’re going to help each other,” Dr. Seifert tells us.

Depending on how bad the situation can get during the shutdown, children can face elements of trauma. You should pay attention to symptoms such as sleeping too much or too little, anxiety, or even being afraid to leave the house.

We’re told the sooner you talk to your children, the better.