By Mr Byron Hunt - Counsellor at Calvary Christian College

As Cyclone Alfred moves closer, it’s natural to feel nervous. Uncertainty can bring tension, especially for kids and teens who take emotional cues from the adults around them. But now, we have a choice: we can be swept up in the fear, or we can be the steady presence our children need. 

We are prepared. We have enough for ourselves, our loved ones, and even our neighbours. Our homes are as ready as possible, and we have plans in place. Now, the best thing we can do is focus on keeping our minds and hearts steady. 

Fear is contagious—but so is calm. When we breathe deeply, speak reassuringly, and handle challenges with a level head, our children learn to do the same. “Let their storm meet our calm.” In the face of uncertainty, we can be the anchor that holds them steady. 

Here are some simple ways to help kids feel safe: 

🌿 Acknowledge their feelings – It’s okay to be nervous. Let them talk about their worries, and remind them that you’re in this together. 

🌿 Stick to routines where possible – Familiar habits bring comfort, even in unpredictable times. 

🌿 Limit exposure to fear-driven news – Stay informed but avoid the constant cycle of updates that can increase anxiety. 

🌿 Use grounding techniques – Try deep breathing, listening to music, or focusing on positive plans for after the storm passes. 

🌿 Keep connection at the centre – Laughter, hugs, and small moments of joy can go a long way in easing stress. 

Great tips from Michelle Mitchell

A few lines I use when I speak to young people when they are worrying:   

• What can we do to prepare... Tip - Give them a specific responsibility, change the batteries in our torches, get the pets food ready, download movies on the iPad in case the internet drops out. Include them in the preparation, normalise it.

• Where will we get our information...? 
  Tip - Who are the trusted sources we listen to, and for what lengths of time? Please turn the news off once you have consumed what you need to, or better still consume it in your newsfeed and translate it to younger kids.  

• What information or chatter isn't helping...? 
  Tip - Scrolling social media for endless news. Parents you might want to use those lock boxes if it's becoming obsessive. 

• Put your phone down and show them that you are not panicked.   
  Ask your kids… Is there anything you are particularly worried about? What's the plan for the worst-case scenario... 
  Tip - Really listen to their fears and respond honestly and practically. Let's not forget about the worry they have for their pets. That's real!   
  

• If they are asking "What if this happens...." flip it to "Even if this happens... we are going to get through this together."  
   
  Kids feel a strong sense of comfort when they know they have enough overflow in our hearts for others. So you might also try saying, "We are really well prepared, not only to look after ourselves but to help others."  

We cannot control the storm, but we can control how we face it. Let’s meet the winds with steady hearts and open arms, showing our kids that no matter what, they are safe, loved, and never alone. 🌿