When you are preparing 72-hour kits for your family you may want to consider including items to help entertain your kids during a difficult time. Often you will take your 72-hour kit to a shelter. This is a small space where you have to take into consideration the people around you. You will want to provide activities that will keep your children quiet during this time.
If you have toddlers and preschoolers you should consider bringing a wide variety of activities. You should pack books that you can read to your children. If your children enjoy coloring, include several coloring books and a box of crayons. Stickers can keep children occupied for long periods of times. You may also consider small cars, and a small doll.
If you have elementary age children you can pack activities that interest them. Books are a great option, especially if you children are readers. I think that “Hatchet” by Gary Paulsen is great book to read. “Treasure Island” and “Swiss Family Robinson” would be fun as well. You can also pack a variety of travel games or card games for your children to play.
You may want to have your teenagers choose activities that they want to take with them. You may advise them to stay away from activities that rely on power since they may be without power for a period of time. You should also take this into consideration for all the activities that you choose.
As you put together small activity kits for your children it will help entertain them through a stressful time. It is important to provide a wide variety of activities, but you should also make sure that they are compact and lightweight. Remember that once you are in an emergency situation that your children will respond to your emotions. As you keep them entertained and stay calm, they will handle the emergency better.