Storm Planning for Anxious Kids

5/15/2024 (Permalink)

When the storm has passed, call SERVPRO®.

Thunder roars, lightning flashes and the tornado sirens blare, causing your dog to pace and your children to panic. Storm situations can be scary, especially during the summer when strong storms and tornadoes are more common. However, while we cannot control the weather, we can prepare and respond to it in ways that keep everyone calm.

This is particularly important for young children. Read on as our team explains some simple ways to incorporate storm preparation into your family routine, ensuring everyone stays calm and collected during an emergency.

Recognizing the Signs of Inclement Weather

While we can all differentiate between a sunny and cloudy day, not everyone knows what to look for as the weather changes. Even if the weather forecast does not predict storms, it is important to watch the sky. Teach your children to recognize the signs of an impending storm, such as rotating clouds, a dark or green sky, rumbling thunder and lightning that may signal a potentially dangerous storm.

It is also important to teach your kids to recognize the sound of a tornado siren and when it might go off. When the sirens are being tested, use the opportunity to help children become more familiar with the sound so that they are not frightened when it goes off during an emergency. Encourage them to listen for the siren and time how long it takes to reach your safe shelter location.

Preparing for the Incoming Weather

Have you created a storm emergency plan with your family? This includes discussing how and when to get to your safe shelter location and ensuring that your emergency kit is packed and ready to go. Choose the lowest level of your home and find an innermost room, preferably without windows. Keep a small gathering area clear at all times.

If possible, move a heavy object such as a table or desk into the room. Have your kids practice building a fort around the space and huddling inside together.

You should also involve your children in packing your emergency kit. Start with the essentials and let them help you choose what goes into the bag, including some of their favorite foods and snacks and shelf-stable water for the entire family.

Have kids pick out a flashlight and label it with their name, and don’t forget to include extra batteries, candles, matches, and any medications or prescriptions that may be required. Finally, let your kids choose some special games or activities that are only played during severe weather situations. If you lose power or need to stay sheltered for an extended period of time, you will be thankful for the added distraction.

Staying Calm

Severe weather can be frightening, even for adults, so it is natural for children to be anxious about storms and severe weather planning. It can help to explain that the chances of experiencing severe destruction or suffering from a direct tornado hit are relatively low.

Most home damage during storms, even small tornadoes, is typically focused on the roof, siding and surrounding property. The focus should be on keeping children calm and distracted during a weather event. Narrating the events in a light-hearted way may help, and it is important to stay confident and calm so that children feel secure. Together, your family will be able to tackle severe weather with much more confidence.