Pregoli provides support to families affected by the Earthquake

Pregoli in conjunction with Child Psychologist Clare Tatterson, held a successful Community Evening on 15th September at Riccarton Park. Families from Christchurch & Kaiapoi came to listen to Child Psychologist, Clare Tatterson speak about how the Earthquake has affected children (and adults) and learn’t simple strategies to help them through this difficult time.

While children played with toys and coloured in bright, happy pictures, Clare spoke about the Trauma some Children may have experienced. Clare mentioned some key behavioural signals were: irritability, tearful for no apparent reason, unusually clingy, changed eating habits.

Some suggestions on dealing with this were to spend more quality time with your children, to limit media coverage of the earthquake, turning the TV off one hour before bedtime, and instead reading books or colouring in. Massage was also suggested as a wonderful way to wind down before bed. Clare also mentioned some relaxation exercises, which can be performed throughout the day as well as before bed. More information is available at http://www.pregoli.co.nz

Promoted through the Pregoli website, a request was also made to the public to help provide clothing and toys to those in need. “We’ve received almost a trailer load of babies, kids and adult clothing, baby toys, blankets and books from customers around Christchurch and throughout New Zealand” said Belinda Simon, Co-owner of Pregoli. One supplier in Auckland, Nature Baby sent a large box of organic baby food and teething rusks. The clothing, toys & food will be distributed to those families in need and to Salvation Army stores around the city in the coming days. “The support and generosity of New Zealander’s has been amazing” said Belinda.

Pregoli is an online Maternity & Children’s Boutique, based in Christchurch, New Zealand. http://www.pregoli.co.nz