We are heartbroken over the devastating wildfires in Southern California. We send our love and prayers to everyone who has been affected in any way. Here are picture books, videos, and other resources to help families discuss these events. We recommend that adults preview each of these first to make sure the level of detail is right for your children at this moment.
-
A free downloadable, printable, and colorable children’s book from the National Child Traumatic Stress Network helps young children and their families talk about feelings and worries they may have about wildfires. Another picture book by one of its authors is available as a YouTube read-aloud featuring forest critters who find some comfort in learning that we all feel scared sometimes.
-
Older kids (approx ages 8-12) can join the young fictional narrator of this interactive journal/story in learning strategies for dealing with the trauma of California wildfires.
-
This picture book intended for ages 5-8 was written and illustrated by a former forest firefighter to help families process the aftermath of a wildfire and become hopeful as we look toward rebuilding.
-
Young kids can feel encouraged by learning about and celebrating the brave responders who help in an emergency. A veteran Army National Guard pilot created a picture book about The Fire Truck that Could Fly.
- And just for adults: The child development experts who carry on the legacy of Mr. Rogers wrote a brilliant and practical PBS Kids for Parents guide to helping children cope with news of tragic events.
More
Wildfire Crisis Relief via the Jewish Federation of Los Angeles
How to Talk to Kids About Natural Disasters via Good Morning America
January 10, 2025