Prepare Children for Hurricanes or Storms
People talk about how to prepare your home for a hurricane, but no one talks much about how to prepare our children. I am writing this special thought because some of you may be in the path of this latest hurricane. Some of you may have friends or family in the path so feel free to pass this on to them.
Check your own attitude. Children “catch” their attitudes from you. If they see you frightened and worried, it will make them more frightened and worried. Be brave and be strong as you prepare for the storm.
Limit media. While it is important to keep updated to know what to expect and what to do, limit the time children view and listen to media. Media often paints a dismal frightening picture and when children see this, it scares them more.
Talk honestly. Tell children that there may be a big storm. Tell them the precautions you are taking so you will all be safe.
Involve children. Make a list of everything you have to do to prepare and offer some of the jobs in preparedness to children.
Find times to laugh and sing. I know that this may sound ridiculous with a huge storm coming, but it truly is the best medicine, so find ways to laugh and smile and sing. Listen. Your children may want to talk.
Listen to their fears. Reassure them. Be there for them.Be full of hope. No matter what the weather is on the outside, it is important for children to feel hope on the inside. Things will get better. You are a family. You will be together, and together you can do anything.
Take time to pray together. I have seen children get so much calmer when they pray and know there is a Higher Power at work in their lives, and to ask that Higher Power to take care of them and keep them safe. I know it calms me too when I pray to God.
skip to main |
skip to sidebar
