How to Talk to Children About an Evacuation

Evacuations due to natural disasters are challenging for everyone, but for children, the sudden loss of their home, school, or childcare routine can feel overwhelming. Parents are left balancing their own stress with the need to support their children emotionally, physically, and practically. Whether you're navigating temporary school closures, the search for backup childcare, or simply trying to keep routines in place, here’s how you can talk to your kids and help them cope.

Validate Their Feelings and Reassure Their Safety

Children may feel sadness, anxiety, or fear during an evacuation, and it’s important to acknowledge those emotions. Say things like:

“It’s okay to feel upset about leaving your school and friends. I feel that way too. We’re doing everything we can to stay safe, and we’re together.”

Validation helps kids feel heard, and your reassurance reminds them that plans are in place to protect them.

Maintain Familiar Routines

Routines provide structure and comfort, especially during disruptions. If school and childcare routines are interrupted:

Create a new daily schedule that includes mealtimes, playtime, and quiet time.
Incorporate familiar activities from their school or daycare.
Include them in simple chores, like meal prep, to foster a sense of normalcy and responsibility.

If your child’s preschool or daycare offers virtual activities or updates, participate in those to help them stay connected.

Find Backup Childcare

With school closures and disruptions to childcare, finding alternatives is critical for maintaining stability and giving yourself time as a parent to navigate the crisis.

Drop-In Childcare: Services like Winnie’s drop-in childcare directory can help you find flexible, short-term childcare options nearby.
New Options: If you’ve relocated or are facing extended closures, use Winnie to find licensed preschools and childcare centers near your new location. Many providers offer virtual tours and streamlined enrollment processes to assist families during emergencies.

Involve Kids in the Process

If there's time, give children a sense of agency by involving them in tasks like packing a go-bag or making decisions about what to bring to a temporary location. Ask them to choose a favorite toy, book, or comfort item to help them feel more secure.

Once you're evacuated, kids can help by coming up with the new routine, figuring out how to setup your temporary space, and ideally even have a spot just for them.

Limit Exposure to Media

Children can become overwhelmed by images and news about fires or natural disasters. Limit their exposure to media and social media, and instead, focus on age-appropriate conversations. For example, say:

“There are a lot of people working hard to keep everyone safe. We’re doing our part by staying together.”

For older children, consider discussing the causes of natural disasters and emergency safety tips to empower them with knowledge while keeping the tone calm and hopeful.

Help Kids Stay Connected to Friends and Caregivers

Disruptions to their social connections can make children feel isolated. Help them maintain friendships and connections to caregivers through:

Virtual playdates, Zoom storytime, or show-and-tell sessions.
Sharing updates or messages from teachers or classmates.

These small steps can help your child feel less isolated and more supported by their community.

Prioritize Yourself Too!

Remember that your well-being directly impacts your child’s sense of security. Make time to recharge, lean on friends or community for help, and don’t hesitate to reach out for professional support if needed.

Evacuations and disruptions to childcare or school are stressful, but with preparation, empathy, and the right resources, you can help your child feel safe and loved. For families seeking immediate childcare solutions, visit Winnie’s drop-in childcare directory or find childcare near your new location.

By focusing on what you can control and supporting your child’s emotional needs, you’re teaching them resilience and strength that will carry them through this challenging time.