Children

Disasters often strike quickly and without warning. They are frightening for adults, and can be traumatic for children. Your family may have to leave home and change your daily routine. Be prepared to give your children guidance that will help reduce their fears.  

Follow these tips for talking to your child prior to a disaster:

• Identify which disasters are most common where you live; determine what you need to do to prepare.
• Check at your children’s schools, day care, or other locations where they regularly spend time. Find out what their emergency plans are so that you can reinforce them at home.
• Talk about emergency preparation with your family so that everyone knows what to do. Discussing ahead of time helps reduce fear, particularly for younger children.
• Involve your entire family in preparation activities, such as assembling an emergency supplies kidl kit.  Children can feel reassured knowing there’s a plan in place.

Additional Resources: 
ARC "Disaster Safety for Children" 
Ready.gov "Kids" 
CDC "Caring for Children in Disaster" 
Sesame Street "Emergency Preparation"