What to Prep for Your Kids

When it comes to emergency preparedness, most families think about food, water, and first aid—but parents know there’s a lot more to consider when kids are involved. From comfort items to special dietary needs, being ready for your children means thinking beyond the basics. Here’s how to build a family emergency plan and kit that truly covers your kids’ needs.

1. Essentials Every Child Needs

Food and Water

• Infants: Stock up on formula (powdered is easiest to store), bottles, and a way to sterilize or clean them. If you’re breastfeeding, pack snacks and hydration for mom too.
• Toddlers and older kids: Store easy-to-eat foods they'll actually eat -- fruit cups, granola bars, crackers, nut butters, shelf-stable milk, etc.
• Water: Plan for one gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation, but pack extra for kids who use bottles or sippy cups.

Medications and Health

• Include any daily medications, inhalers, or EpiPens.
• Keep a copy of prescriptions and a note from your child’s doctor.
• Don’t forget items like diaper rash cream, teething gel, and children’s pain relievers.

2. Comfort and Emotional Support

Emergencies are scary—even more so for kids. Familiar items can help them feel safe and calm.

• Favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or small toy
• Coloring books, crayons, or activity pads
• Family photos – Seeing loved ones can help calm anxiety if separated.
• A “comfort letter” – Write a short, reassuring note reminding them they’re loved and safe.

These small touches can make a huge difference during uncertain times.

3. Clothing and Hygiene

Kids grow fast, so it’s easy for emergency clothing to get outdated. Check every six months and replace as needed.

Pack:

• 2 outfits per child (including socks and underwear)
• Warm layers and a waterproof jacket
• Sturdy shoes
• Diapers, wipes, and disposable bags
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush
• Feminine hygiene products for older girls

Label each child’s items and keep them in separate gallon-size bags.

4. Safety and Identification

If separated, clear identification can help reunite families faster.

• ID card in every child’s bag with:
  • Name, date of birth, and parent contact info
  • Medical info (allergies, blood type, medications)
  • Out-of-state emergency contact
• Recent family photo (digital and printed)
• Whistle or small flashlight

Pro tip: For young children, write your phone number on their arm in permanent marker during an evacuation.

5. Entertainment and Education

Distraction can be a powerful coping tool.

Pack items that engage your kids’ minds and provide normalcy:

• Books or small games
• A deck of cards
• Mini dry-erase board and marker
• Downloaded movies or shows on a tablet (plus a backup charger or battery pack)

6. Customize Items

Check the list of items you would put in an adult bag and add any of those items that you feel could benefit your child, cutomizing it to your child and taking into consideration what would be safe and appropriate for your child to have. For instance a flashlight might be appropriate, but matches might not. You can find an adult list here: Emergency Kits

6. Family Emergency Plan

Your kids should know:

• Their full name and your phone number
• Who to go to if you’re separated
• How to contact a trusted neighbor or relative
• Where your family’s emergency meeting spots are

Practice drills a few times a year so they become second nature. Make it a game to reduce fear—kids remember best when they feel involved.

7. Long-Term Preparedness for Kids

Beyond your 72-hour kit, think long term:

• Backup supplies of diapers, formula, and clothes stored in bins at home.
• Extra comfort items (blanket, books, or plush toys) in your car and go-bags.
• Rotating stock—use and replace items every six months to keep everything fresh.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for your kids means preparing for peace of mind. In an emergency, you’ll already have enough to worry about—don’t let missing pacifiers, medication, or snacks add to the stress. Build their kits now, update them regularly, and involve your kids in the process so they feel empowered, not afraid.

Start small. Prepare smart. Protect what matters most.

No fuss. No fluff. No fear.

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