When the unexpected happens, a parent will want to protect children. Whether utility service has been interrupted or you’ve been unexpectedly stranded, there are ways to be prepared.

PLAN NOT TO PANIC
According to the RULE OF 3’s TO SURVIVE, it is dangerous to panic in an emergency. Children will pick up on your emotion. Your efforts to be prepared will give you the confidence you need to reassure your children.

ROUTINES ARE IMPORTANT
Look for ways to create a routine for children in the upheaval of the unexpected. A parent instituted routine is comforting to the child.

AMUSEMENTS
Amusements help pass the time when you are unable to travel. It is unlikely that you will have access to a source of power to operate electronic games. Craft supplies are wonderful to have on hand; this includes play dough, scissors, paper, tape, markers, glue and other assorted items. Take the time to introduce your children to board games, dolls, toy cars, blocks, puzzles and reading in order that they will be welcomed ‘old friends’ should they need entertainment. Organized school may not be an option in some circumstances. Keep educational supplies in stock.

PREPARE FOR GOOD HEALTH
Your dental health and other health conditions should be tended while you have access to remedies and treatments. Rather than neglect those annoying aches and pains, take steps to remedy them so they aren’t a factor in an emergency. If you require certain medicines, be sure that you have a supply in stock. Get into the habit of observing the sleeping, eating and toilet patterns of your family members so that you will detect illness early and be able to deal with it proactively. Train yourself to be observant of the impact circumstances are having on your loved ones. Otherwise, it will be easy to remain focused on your own challenges to the exclusion of others.

CULTIVATE AN APPRECIATION FOR REAL FOODS
Today’s diet is in an investment in tomorrow’s health. Children that are trained to be picky eaters could do themselves harm by refusing to consume needed nutrients. A pallet can be taught to appreciate the taste and texture of REAL foods, but the exercise is complicated by taste buds dulled on sugars and processed foods. Take the time to introduce children to a wide spectrum of foods. Learn about nutrition and basic food preparation  — and teach your children about these things also.

INFANT AND BABY CARE
Babies don’t require a lot of equipment in order to be healthy and safe In an emergency. Pacifiers, disposable diapers, music players, bouncy chairs, cribs and carriers are modern conveniences, not necessities. What babies DO require is nourishment, and to be kept warm and dry.

Nursing an infant is a skill that can be learned. Breastfeeding is worth the time investment as it is beneficial to both mother and infant. This decision can insure that your infant will continue to receive nourishment even if other supplies are scarce. Keep a good supply of formula stocked and on hand for bottle-fed babies.

Infants aren’t able to regulate body temperature and must be protected from extremes of heat or cold. In summer, protect babies from direct sun. Employ an umbrella for protection. Layering clothing in the winter will help protect little ones from the cold. At night, long thermal underwear can be worn beneath zippered sleepers made of fleece. Two or three persons sharing a single bed helps to retain warmth during the night. Dress babies in wool hats, socks and fleece jackets to keep them warm during daylight hours.

SANITATION
Daily baths won’t be possible if water is in short supply or if temperatures are very cool. Find the warmest spot in your living quarters and teach your children that they should wash their faces, hands, feet and privates every day. Insure that hands are washed before eating and before meal preparation. This is important for healthy hygiene in rustic conditions. Latrine construction, maintenance, and waste disposal are important lessons for older children.

EXPERTISE
Learning life skills gives children more confidence in uncertain circumstances. Give your children the gift of learning how to do such things as shop wisely, stock a pantry, pitch a tent, build a camp fire, cook, sew, garden, repair small engines, perform first aid, CPR, and swim. Knowing self defense, what to do in a fire drill and practicing other scenarios builds confidence. A prepared child is also less likely to panic.

Making preparedness a part of your life will help your children avoid panic when moments are crucial. Rather than face the unknown with desperation, you will have a plan and your little ones will know what to expect. Strengthen your family today with these measures.