Helping Your Children Prepare for a Disaster

September is National Preparedness Month and throughout the month we have provided resources to help you and your family prepare for a hurricane and build an emergency kit. Today we are rounding out the month by sharing some tips for talking to your children about hurricane preparedness.

For children and teens the most important thing is to help them understand their role in helping the family prepare. This downloadable checklist empowers kids to take responsibility of knowing who to contact and what steps to take in case of emergency.

Helping children cope if an emergency happens is an important part of preparedness. The following tips can guide you:

Tips For Helping Children Cope During An Emergency:

1) Encourage dialogue and questions

Create the space and opportunities for your children to talk about their feelings, thoughts, and concerns. When they ask you questions, give them the amount of information you feel is appropriate for their age.

2) Limit media exposure

Intense and repetitive media coverage can disturb children and teens of any age. If your children watch TV or have access to the internet, be on hand to answer questions and be ready to suggest alternative activities should they become distressed by the news coverage.

3) Make time for them and find support

Help your kids understand that they are safe by increasing family time and activities. Build a support network of friends, family, and community organization to help you and your children cope.

4) Keep to a routine

Having a sense of structure can help your children feel more relaxed. When it is safe to do so, returning to school and extracurricular activities can give children a much-needed break and change of scenery.

If a disaster does occur, after you make sure everyone is safe and you inform your loved ones you are okay, call us at 866-345-2033 with any questions about insurance coverage or property damage claims.