Back-to-School, Ready for Anything

Back-to-school isn’t just about new supplies, sharpened pencils, and fresh notebooks. It’s also a natural time to think about preparedness and how our kids would handle an emergency if we weren’t right there with them.

Why Kids Need Their Own Emergency Kits

Schools do their best to be ready for emergencies, but sometimes resources are limited and communication can be delayed. A small kit in your child’s backpack or classroom gives them tools, comfort, and confidence if they ever have to wait out a disruption.

What to Include in a Child’s Kit

Here are some essentials many preparedness educators recommend:

• Water – shelf-stable water pouches or a small bottle.

• Food – non-perishable snacks that won’t melt or spoil easily.

• First aid basics – bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tissues.

• Family connection – a photo of loved ones and a short letter of encouragement.

• Emergency contacts – names, numbers (including an out-of-state contact), allergies, and medications, laminated or in a zip bag.

• Light & safety – a whistle and a small flashlight.

  
  

These items are small, but together they help children feel less afraid and more capable in uncertain moments.

Emergency Preparedness for Children

Preparedness looks different at various ages. For younger children:

• Teach them the basics of emergency procedures in simple, reassuring language.

• Show them how to use their whistle or flashlight.

• Older children: Make sure they have a paper map of the local area that you have taught them to use (highlight common routes) and make sure they know their home address and caregiver’s phone number

• Keep a written list of emergency contacts, medications, and allergies in their backpack.

• Make sure there is a clear meeting place for emergencies.

  
  

The goal is to empower kids to be more resilient, and less frightened. Make a game out of preparedness lessons!

Emergency Preparedness for Teens

Teens may roll their eyes, but they still need guidance:

• Encourage them to pack and maintain their own emergency preparedness kit for their book bag (or purchase a premade kit from us).

• Teach basic skills like first aid and car repair (changing a tire is a great start).

• Agree on a family meeting place in case communication goes down.

• Have them carry a paper map and actually practice using it.

• Remind them that while phones are helpful, they need a backup plan if batteries die or networks fail.

  
  

Prepared teens aren’t just protecting themselves, they can step up to help others, too.

Classroom Preparedness

Teachers are often the first line of support during an emergency. A classroom preparedness kit with water, snacks, first aid, and sanitation supplies can go a long way toward keeping everyone safe and calm. When classrooms are prepared, students feel more secure, and teachers can focus on guiding them through the situation.

Resources for Families

Building your own kits is completely doable, and many families prefer to customize them. If you’d rather start with something pre-assembled, there are ready-made Children’s Preparedness Kits and Classroom Preparedness Kits available.

Preparedness is not about panic. It’s about peace of mind. Equipping kids with the right tools, skills, and knowledge helps them face uncertainty with confidence and that’s a back-to-school lesson worth teaching.