How to Help Children Cope with a Hurricane

The first way to help children cope with a hurricane is to take the child’s age into consideration and then provide them with easy to understand information that they can comprehend regarding what a hurricane is, why we prepare for this type of storm, and the types of emergencies that can occur as a direct result of hurricanes. As you explain, encourage the children to ask questions as they deem necessary. We all have the “fear of the unknown” – even kids – if children are aware of what is occurring around them, they are likely to be a bit more secure and confident that they will be ok.

When making preparations for the hurricane threat, you should allow your child to participate. If you are packing supplies in case of an emergency evacuation, give your child their own backpack and let them know that they should prepare the belongings that they would like to take with them. Remember to encourage clothing, under garments, toothbrushes, and things of importance. Then, you should allow them to take up to three small toys or items that they can pack too. This way, the evacuation, if necessary will be a bit smoother for them.

If your child still seems to be anxious, or troubled, by the impending hurricane, you may want to take time out, sit down, and encourage them to discuss their feelings. Let them know it is ok to talk about what they are feeling, and to be frightened. If a child is permitted to talk about what they feel, and you listen, it will help them in the way of coping with a hurricane. It may also ease a lot of tension around the home.

While an impending hurricane threat is serious, and the proper precautions should be taken, it is important to ensure that the regular routine is kept as close to normal as possible. Children can pick up on stress and anxiety, and any drastic change in routine may heighten their fears, and feed their insecurities during a hurricane.

If you have been busy preparing for the hurricane and have not spent very much time with your child, you may want to slow down a little and do just that. Spend time playing a game, watching a television show, or just talking. That is, if time permits. This will prove to be very comforting to the child and may relax them so that they can effectively cope during a hurricane.