When Something Scary Happens: Weather
When a storm or bad weather happens, kids (and adults) may feel scared, worried or confused. Learning more about the weather and making a plan together as a family can help you and your child know what to expect and be prepared for the storm. Explore the resources below to support your family as you learn, prepare, and help each other in extreme weather events.
LEARN about the weather
Talking With Kids About Severe Weather
Severe weather can feel scary to kids, but simple strategies can help your family prepare and respond. Use these tips to help your family stay calm and ready no matter the weather.
5 Fun Ways to Engage Your Child in Weather Watching
Children are naturally curious, and their curiosity about the weather is no exception. Use these five tips from Cyberchase to engage your child in some fun, math-based weather-watching!
Talking Positively to Kids About Scary Weather
Sometimes weather comes with a lot of noise and excitement that kids might be anxious about. Here are three things you can do to use books and conversation to help kids get weather ready.
Weather Explorer
Help Lily navigate changes in her environment as she heads out on adventures in all kinds of weather, including snow, rain, wind and fog!
Create a Tornado in a Jar
15 min activityExplore the science behind tornadoes with this easy activity.
Exploring Weather
Help your child learn about weather by making a simple weather chart together and observing the weather with their senses.
12 Picture Books About Weather
Explore these books about weather with children and build on their experiences to help them understand — and better prepare for — all different kinds of weather.
Learn more about weather with games and activities from Weather Hunters.
PREPARE for a storm
How to Prepare Children for Unexpected Events and Emergencies
Children always benefit when they are prepared for what is about to or may happen.
Making an Emergency Supply Kit
Help your family pack an emergency supply kit. Talk about the things your family will need. Check each item as you add it to your kit.
Weathering the Storm Together: A Family Safety Plan
Severe weather can be scary for both kids and grown-ups. Follow these tips to plan ahead for severe weather and help your family feel empowered to take action and stay safe during a storm.
HELP after the storm
Helping Children with Tragic Events in the News
In times of crisis, children want to know, "Who will take care of me?" Here are some tips to help reassure children during scary times.
How Play Helps Kids Navigate Difficult Times
In the few months, a lot has changed for my kids — and probably for your kids, too. Playtime with family is a powerful tool to help kids navigate this challenging time.
Draw Your Feelings
Have your child draw a picture to show how they're feeling.
Explore more resources from Sesame Workshop to help you support your child during emergencies and difficult situations, with simple guidance for what to do, what to say, and how to help children feel safe and secure.