How to Help a Child Feel Safe After a Burglary
Calm, practical ideas for parents on explaining a burglary to a young child and helping them feel safe at home again.
A burglary can leave a whole family shaken. Young children may feel scared in their own home and worry that it will happen again. These ideas can help your child feel safe.
Reassure them first
Tell your child that they are safe and that the grown-ups are taking care of things. Children often worry that the burglars will come back, so say what you are doing to keep the home secure.
Explain it honestly, in simple words
You might say that someone came into the home and took things that did not belong to them. Keep it short and avoid frightening details. Make clear that it was not your child’s fault.
Let them talk, ask and play
Some children ask lots of questions. Others go quiet. Listen without rushing. Drawing and play can also help a child show what they are feeling.
Rebuild a sense of safety
- Keep daily routines as normal as possible.
- Let your child see you fix locks or tidy up.
- Let them help decide where things go back.
- Expect changes in sleep or mood for a while.
Look after yourself too
Adults can feel upset or anxious after a burglary, and children notice. Victim Support is a free, private charity that helps families after a burglary. You do not need to report the crime to get help.
Use a story to help your child heal
Why Have We Been Burgled? is a comforting tale for children who have been victims of a burglary. It is coming soon on Kindle and Audible.
Where to get more help
Our Support page lists Victim Support, Childline and the NSPCC, and other helpful organisations.
From the Coping with Growing series: modern fairy tales for life’s big moments.