by Kristy Stevens-Young

Created on: August 31, 2008   Last Updated: December 13, 2010

The best way to survive a disaster is to be prepared. Children are a special concern as they not only will have special needs but will need you to make sure they are met. By taking a few extra steps, you can help your children to have a less stressful adjustment.

FOOD and WATER

Every person in your family needs to have a minimum of a two-week supply of water and food. Dehydrated food can be stored for years and easy to find both locally and online. Fill in with canned goods, jerky, dried fruit and nuts. Stock foods that you know your family will eat, including snacks. Find a dry, cool, storage space (box, cabinet) and rotate the contents as you buy more.

Children:
Try and have some of your children's favorite foods available for daily meals, even if they are a bit different than what they are use to. For example: instant potatoes, rice and oatmeal can be made with just water.

Add a supply of powder milk, tang, and/or Kool-Aid which can be added to the bottled water to encourage them to drink more. Don't forget to add in a few of their favorite treats such as M&Ms or Twinkies.

BASIC SUPPLIES

You may not be able to run to the supermarket to pick up toothpaste, dish soap or toilet tissue. Keep all the supplies together: candles and matches, flashlights with extra batteries, etc. in the same spot as your food supply.

You will of course need a well-stocked first aid kit. Add pain reliever, sleeping medicine, vitamins as well as Pedicare and Ensure. Don't forget a minimum 2-week supply of all prescriptions.

Children:
Your children may be scared and confused and will need the comfort of familiar items and rituals. If you read a book before bed, pick up a few new ones and tuck them away with the supplies. A new Webkinz, play dough, Barbie or Lego's can give them hours of worry free fun. Add in some playing cards, color books, puzzles and a few family board games.

Since your children may be confined, it is important to prepare for that as well. Have some school supplies available: even if it is just workbooks, so their education (and routine) can continue.

In addition, don't forget your pets! Make sure you have enough water, dry and canned food for all of them as well.

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