Once again, the southeastern United States braces for another hurricane, even while still reeling from the last one. It is a difficult time for all of us. We know that our children are listening to the news and hearing stories from their friends. It can be a lot to manage. We just don’t know what might happen, and as many of our families have learned, sometimes the unthinkable does happen. Florida’s major storms have the potential to leave us in a much different place.
Here at WFSU, hurricane prep involves a lot more than anyone might realize! We are part of the Florida Public Radio Emergency Network, which helps us to provide you with the latest information during a storm (yes, there is a free app for that, too).
Some of our staff will be hunkered down during a major storm to give you and your loved ones up-to-date information, let you know where to get help, and to let you know what water-logged or tree-blocked areas of our communities to avoid. We also work with several community partners to keep you safe and in-the-know.
During scary events, children may have many questions or even fears. The WFSU Education Team has compiled a list of online resources that will help you to communicate with your children about disasters and how to cope with them.
Here are some general resources for all ages:
https://www.pbs.org/video/why-hurricanes-are-earths-most-powerful-storms-aaxi25/
https://www.pbs.org/video/hurricanes-the-most-violent-storms-on-earth-taumar/
https://www.pbs.org/video/arthur-shelter-storm-part-1/
https://www.pbs.org/video/arthur-shelter-storm-part-2/
As always, PBS LearningMedia has content for all ages as well. Click the link for lesson ideas, writing prompts and science projects all hurricane related. https://florida.pbslearningmedia.org/search/?q=HURRICANES
Disaster Relief, Resources for Young Children
- MEET THE HELPERS. This website, by WUCF-TV in Orlando, was created to fill a need for age-appropriate content about emergencies after the Pulse Nightclub Shooting.
- PBS KIDS, When Something Scary Happens. Resources to help families cope in emergencies and other challenging times.
- Sesame Street in Communities Emergency Preparedness. Whether you’re preparing for the unexpected or recovering from it, your reassurance and comfort hold great power to soothe children even on the scariest, toughest days.
- https://pbskids.org/videos/watch/the-storm-is-coming/10487
- https://pbskids.org/videos/watch/our-storm-emergency-kit/10429
Disaster Relief, Resources for Parents
- Florida Public Radio Emergency Network.
- Florida Governor DeSantis State of Emergency updates.
- Leon County Emergency Information Portal.
- National Hurricane Center.
Stay safe neighbors! And look for the helpers….
