Explore & Educate

Emergencies don’t come with a warning, and trust me, after 20 years in childcare, I’ve seen just how unpredictable life can be. Whether you’re a parent trying to protect your family or a daycare provider responsible for multiple children, being prepared can make all the difference. Let’s walk through what you need to know.

For Families: Keeping Your Loved Ones Safe

1. Start with a Simple Plan

Emergencies don’t have to be scary if you have a plan in place. Sit down as a family and discuss what to do in different scenarios:

• Where will you meet if separated? Pick a spot outside the home and one out of town.
• Who is your emergency contact? Choose someone outside your immediate area.
• What’s the quickest way out of the house? Walk through different exits with the kids.

📌 Pro Tip: Kids remember better when things are made into a game! Practice your plan as a fun “drill” every few months.

2. Build Your Emergency Kit

Think of this as your family’s safety backpack. Here’s what should go inside:

• Water (one gallon per person per day for 3 days)
• Non-perishable food & snacks
• First-aid supplies
• Flashlights & extra batteries
• Medications & copies of prescriptions
• A small comfort toy or book for kids
• Extra phone chargers & cash

📌 Pro Tip: Store your kit where it’s easy to grab, like near the front door or in the car. Rotate out food and batteries every 6 months.

3. Teach Your Kids Without Scaring Them

Children need to know what to do without feeling overwhelmed.

• Teach them how to dial 911 and when to use it.
• Show them how to recognize safe adults in an emergency.
• Help them memorize their full name, address, and a contact number.

📌 Pro Tip: Use books or videos like those from Ready.gov to make it fun and engaging!

4. Plan for Pets Too!

Your furry family members need a plan as well. Pack:

• Extra pet food & water
• Medications
• Comfort items (favorite toy, blanket)
• Leash or carrier

For Daycares: Protecting the Kids in Your Care

1. Have a Clear Emergency Plan

A daycare’s emergency plan must be crystal clear. Make sure you cover:

• Evacuation Routes: Post maps in every room.
• Shelter-in-Place Protocols: Where to go for tornadoes, lockdowns, or chemical spills.
• Parent Communication: How will you contact families? (Text alerts, phone chains, or an app?)

📌 Pro Tip: Parents feel more secure when they know their childcare provider has a solid plan. Go over it during orientation and keep a copy posted.

2. Emergency Drills: Practice Makes Prepared

Regular practice is key:

• Fire drills: Monthly
• Lockdown drills: Every 3 months
• Severe weather drills: Twice a year

📌 Pro Tip: Make the drills engaging. Assign “helpers” to lead younger children through the process so they feel confident instead of scared.

3. Stock Your Emergency Supplies

You’ll need more than just Band-Aids! Here’s what every daycare should have:

• Child-friendly first-aid kit
• Emergency contact info for each child (in paper and digital format)
• Non-perishable food & bottled water for 72 hours
• Blankets and diapers (if caring for infants)
• Flashlights, extra batteries, and a battery-operated radio

📌 Pro Tip: Keep kits in multiple locations—classrooms, office, and an outdoor shed.

4. Know Your Licensing Requirements

Each state has different childcare safety regulations. Check your local requirements on Child Care Aware to make sure you’re up to date!

Final Thoughts

Emergencies are unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be. By taking these simple steps, you can protect your family or daycare and give yourself peace of mind. Start today—because the best plan is the one you’ve already practiced.

📢 Want more resources and expert tips? Check out my Linktree for emergency checklists, drills, and more: https://linktr.ee/ExploreandEducate.