Hurricane season is amongst us now. We have repeatedly heard the warnings and suggestions of preparing our family & homes for unexpected natural disasters. Without “scaring” our tweens and young children, teaching them how to be prepared can help diffuse fear, anxiety and other emotions that come with an emergency.
Two weeks ago our neighborhood experienced a power outage in the evening. My children were not happy since their routine was disrupted. Everyone was instructed to go get their flashlights and meet in the dining room. Knowing that these outages are somewhat frequent, I broke out S’mores fixings and decided to make this an adventure rather than an emergency. We roasted S’mores over a candle and played our favorite game of table talk. By the time we were finished having “fun” the crisis was over and our children were able to resume normal bedtime routine.
It is important to not only be prepared with the realistic items of water, food, clothing, but to remember to pack away some “fun” for your tweens and younger children. We are not always lucky with a 4 hour emergency. We do not let our children watch the news as it reports so much “bad stuff” in the world, yet, it is important to talk about natural disasters and what your family would do.
Each family should have disaster plans. Each family should have at least 72 hours of food and water rations. You should have all important documents and number together in a place where you could grab them and go. We always make sure our gas tanks in our car are full. You would never want to be caught almost empty and trying to get gas in an emergency. We also keep glow sticks, simple games, book, crayons, paper, etc. in a waterproof bag to keep our children entertained.
Being prepared does not have to be a “scary” or fanatical thing. This is a great time of year to revise your emergency plans and devise some if you don’t have any. Make a family night out of teaching your children what to do in different types of emergencies. Tweens are at a great age to help diffuse stress, anxiety and fear with younger kids if they are taught to help.
How has your family prepared for emergencies?
Tags: communication, Kristen Paulsen, media, Responsibility, tweens
It has been a blessing to me and my family to be raised in a church/religion- that taught and still teaches “family preparedness” which goes beyond a possible natural disaster- and suggests having two years worth of food storage and supplies. It may sound impossible or very difficult considering the economy but if done little by little and by following the guide to doing it- it is quite possible and can provide a sense of relief and safety- AND can help others in need….what a blessing to be able to go down to the pantry and load up a couple of grocery bags to help a friend or family memeber who may be struggling…..knowing that those items are there and can be replaced. Of course fire drills are important, escape plans, where to go in case of a Tornado…..Having a safety kit in the car- all these things are beneficial.
I love that you worked in the aspect of fun. I remember growing up in the 80′s and feeling a constant nagging worry about whether there was going to be a nuclear war. This was the hey day of the cold war and it was on the news, discussed in school, portrayed in movies and books, etc. I love how you used a power outage to roast marshmellows by candlelight. In addition to the physical preparedness, that’s a great way to help your kids be emotionally prepared for when things might go wrong. They can know that things like the lights going out don’t have to be scary, and they can handle it. Great ideas! Thanks.