Hurricane Milton – Keeping Kids Worry Free

With Hurricane Milton expected to make landfall in Florida in the next 48 hours, school-aged children across the state are feeling mixed emotions – excited that school is canceled in many counties, but nervous and scared about the impact of the impending hurricane.

These storms can be a major source of anxiety for everyone, and kids are no exception. Keeping them busy, entertained, and calm before, during, and after a storm is essential for their emotional and physical well-being.

Beth Behr, a certified child life specialist who oversees the child life and music therapy programs at Holtz Children’s Hospital, recommends these practical and fun ways to keep their minds occupied and worry-free:

1. Create a craft station: Set up a craft station with supplies like paper, markers, glue, and scissors. Encourage creativity by having them make storm-themed art with clouds, lightning strikes, rainbows, and the sun coming out after the storm passes. This fosters imagination, while associating the storm with visuals they’re already familiar with.
2. Design an indoor scavenger hunt: Using items around your house, create an indoor scavenger hunt that lists things to find. This keeps their mind engaged and can lead to friendly competition among family members.
3. Build a fort: Gather blankets, pillows, and furniture to create a cozy fort to read stories with a flashlight, play games, or have a snack. This can become a special space where they feel safe.
4. Cook together: If your electricity stays on, involve your kids in simple storm-themed cooking or baking projects like storm cupcakes or rainbow fruit skewers. This activity is a great distraction, and also teaches them a valuable skill.
5. Play games: Pull out the board games, play cards, or challenge each other to a game of dominoes. These activities keep kids (and adults) engaged and entertained and create an opportunity for family bonding. Even if the power goes out, these games are a great choice.
6. Have a dance party: Create a fun playlist and have a dance party in your living room. This is a great way to release energy, have fun, and promote physical activity.
7. Take a break for mindfulness and relaxation: Teach kids simple breathing exercises or mindfulness techniques, which can help them cope with anxiety and create a calming atmosphere.
8. Turn off the news: When your kids are around, minimize – or even eliminate – their access to the round-the-clock storm coverage, which can build upon their fears and anxieties.

By thinking ahead and planning activities, you can help your children feel secure and entertained, turning a stressful situation into an opportunity to make memories and bond as a family.

For information on UHealth Jackson Children’s Care child life and music therapy programs, click here.