Hurricane Season starts today! For those in the Southeast US, especially in Florida, you know how stressful June through November can be. We watch the “Tropics” at least on a weekly basis. Growing up in South Florida, I’ve been through Hurricane Andrew and at least a dozen other hurricanes. As a child, I was able to sit back and watch my parents scramble to get ready for every storm. It’s so different as an adult, though – having to actually be responsible for the preparations. Luckily, I’ve got my hubby to do most of the logistics and physical labor! Through the years and storms with kids, we’ve learned a few things. Here are some suggestions as you’re getting ready for hurricane season with kids.

Prepare your kids

• It’s important that your kids know how to dial 911, in the case of an emergency during a hurricane.
• In case there is damage to your home, make sure the kids know where to meet you if you’re separated. Decide on someone they can call if they can’t find you.
• Before, during, and after a storm, stay emotionally connected with your kids. Allow them to talk out their feelings, and any fears or anxiety they may be experiencing. Provide reassurance, and seek professional help for them if necessary.

Prepare your family

Things to keep on hand for your family:

• A week’s worth of water – 2 gallons of water per person per day
• Non-perishable food and a can opener for canned goods! Some ideas include: Peanut butter and jelly, canned soup, meats, milk, fish, fruit, vegetables, bread, cookies, crackers, granola bars
• A first-aid kit with band-aids, anti-bacterial ointment, anti-itch cream, and basic medications (Tylenol, Motrin, Benadryl). Include any regular daily medications. Keep a copy of any prescription labels, and keep a refill on file with your pharmacy, in case your doctor’s office isn’t open right away after a storm.
• Extra pair of eyeglasses or contacts
• Pet supplies – food, water, training pads (since they likely won’t be able to go outside to use the bathroom during the storm!)

Practical things

• Paper plates, cups, and utensils
• Flashlights with batteries
• A battery-operated radio
• Fully charged electronics (phones, tablets, etc), plus chargers for all of your electronics
• Cash and/or a credit card
• Full tank of gas in the car
• Driver’s License/ID
• Current pictures of members of your family
• Spare set of car keys
• A list of important phone numbers – family members, doctor’s offices, etc
• Stock up on toiletries – toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, hand sanitizer, paper towels, toilet paper, etc.
• Baby necessities – baby food, formula, diapers, wipes
• Blankets/sleeping bags
• A generator (if you can!)

For the kids

• Toys and games to keep them occupied
• Arts and crafts supplies
• Favorite snacks for comfort
• White noise or sound machines to block out the noise from the storm
• Keep the kids involved in the preparations ahead of time, and for an impending storm. Make sure they know where things are, in case they’ll need to grab things quickly during the storm.

Protect your home

• Be sure that your windows, sliding glass doors, and garage doors are wind-resistant and will protect you during a storm
• If you live in an area prone to flooding, be sure to take precautions to protect your home from flooding
• Secure anything that can fly away and cause damage if picked up by the wind

Protect yourself

Important documents to keep on hand (also give a copy of these documents to a trusted relative or friend):

• Wills and insurance policies
• Passports
• Social security cards
• Shot records and any medical info for kids and pets
• Financial info: Bank accounts and credit card info
• List and pictures of valuable household goods
• Birth, marriage, and adoption certificates
• Log-in info for online accounts

It can be hard to know if you’ll even by hit with a storm this season, or how the storm will turn out if your are. But, be prepared ahead of time just in case. It makes your life, as well as your kids’ experience, that much easier. So, plan ahead now, while things are still calm.

If you’re in the midst of getting ready for a storm, read my tips for surviving a hurricane with kids.

Do you have any other tips for getting ready for hurricane season with kids? Share them in the comments below!

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If you love these tips, be sure to check out my 170+ page digital library, which includes my Hurricane Planning With Kids Checklists along with the step-by-step instructions and tools you need to create effective routines, manage your time, prepare meals,  clean your home, care for your kids – and so much more!