Family Home Evening Lessons to help Primary Age Children
BE PREPARED
Lesson # Lesson Title Purpose 1 Be Prepared Why prepare for emergencies? 2 What Time Is It? We need to prepare temporally as well as spiritually for the second coming 3 Help!!! People to call for help in an emergency 4 9-1-1 Emergency phone numbers and how to report an emergency 5 Only The Basics Emergency evacuation of your home 6 Food For the 72-Hours Make a simple 72-hour food kit 7 Small and Simple Things Make emergency burners for 72-hour food kits 8 What Do I Do If The Lights Go Out? What to do in a power failure 9 Fire Safety In the Home Learn fire safety 10 Poison Patrol Learn poison safety 11 Quake Safe Learn what to do in an earthquake 12 Lost In The Outdoors Learn outdoor safety rules 13 Safety First Review safety rules 14 Family Survival Day How prepared are you for an emergency? 15 And Ye Will Not Suffer Your Children Prepare granola for your food storage That They Go Hungry 16 Build a Health Body Learn about good nutrition 17 A Penny Saved Learn the difference between wants and needs 18 Sew Simple Learn simple sewing skills 19 Campfire Light Learn to build a campfire
APPENDIX Section Title Appendix 1 Emergency Preparedness Game Appendix 2 Emergency Preparedness Activity involving Children Appendix 3 5 Creative Ways to Teach Preparedness to Your Child
#1 – BE PREPARED
Be prepared in all things. D&C 29:8
PURPOSE: It’s important to prepare for emergencies before they happen. SONG: “Be Prepared” (follows lesson) LESSON: Explain what an emergency is. A general rule to follow is that: An emergency involves danger to your life or your property.
Get a large piece of red paper and a large piece of blue paper. On the red paper write EMERGENCY. On the blue paper write NON-EMERGENCIES. Set the papers on the floor or on a table. Fill a basket with items to represent emergency and non-emergency situations (see suggestions for ITEMS and SITUATIONS below). Take turns drawing an item from the basket, discussing what the situation is, and deciding whether it’s an emergency (is there danger?) or non-emergency. If it’s an emergency, set the item on the red paper. If it’s not an emergency, set it on the blue paper.
ITEM SITUATION HOW TO BE PREPARED Large bandage Deep cut, heavy bleeding Know how to care for a bleeding wound Plastic spider Bit by a spider on the head Know how to care for an insect bite Matches Pile of leaves on fire in the backyard Know how to put a fire out Broken toy Favorite toy has broken part Have different glues for repairs Twig Lost in the woods while on a picnic Know outdoor safety rules Dollar bill Store clerk didn’t give correct change back Check money before leaving store Stuffed animal Family pet hit by car Know animal hospital phone number Bleach bottle Someone drinks from bleach bottle Know Poison Control Center phone # Baseball cap Can’t find baseball cap before game Keep cap in specific place after game Sunday shirt Button missing – must leave for church Check clothes before Sunday morning Electric cord Frayed cord plugged in Have a home fire safety check School book Homework assignment not finished Parent checks homework each day by a certain time
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The word “PREPARE” means “to make ready beforehand.”
To BE PREPARED means knowing what to expect ahead of time and practicing what to do before it happens. Review the emergency items sitting on the red paper. How can your family be prepared for those emergencies?
What is the difference between losing your baseball cap and getting lost in the woods? Which one involves danger? Which one is an emergency? How would you feel if you were lost?
D&C 38:30 – “If ye are prepared ye shall not fear.”
Why is it important that family members (including the youngest child) be prepared for emergencies?
BY PLANNING AHEAD AND KNOWING BE WHAT TO DO IN AN EMERGENCY. . .
PREPARED
You will improve your chances of being SAFE. You will be MENTALLY AND PHYSICALLY READY to meet the crisis. You will know what to do because you will have already acted it out. Children are especially vulnerable to psychological trauma after a disaster if they have had no preparedness training. In an emergency, you have NO TIME TO PLAN ONLY TO REACT. If you have thought out the possibilities of what to do ahead of time, this will help you control your panic reactions and the emotional stress you’re going to feel. In split-seconds, you can make CORRECT DECISIONS. You can HELP OTHERS who are hurt and afraid. You may make the difference between LIFE AND DEATH. You will be LESS AFRAID of the unexpected.
Preparation for one kind of an emergency can greatly increase your survival chances in other emergency situations.
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BE PREPARED (Tune: Yankee Doodle)
VERSE 1: Our prophet told us to prepare For famine and disaster. If we obey our family will Live happy ever after.
CHORUS: “Be prepared”, our prophet said. “Store some wheat and honey” “Plant a garden, learn first aid, And don’t forget some money.”
VERSE 2: When father Noah build an ark The people laughed and shouted. But when the rain began to pour Those people never doubted.
CHORUS: REPEAT
VERSE 3: We have been warned in latter-days There will be floods and earthquakes. So put your house in order And prepare before the dam breaks.
CHORUS: REPEAT
VERSE 4: Please do not procrastinate. Excuses have no muscle. You’ll never find a better time Than NOW! So better hustle.
CHORUS: REPEAT
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#2 – WHAT TIME IS IT?
Prepare ye, prepare ye for that which is to come, for the Lord is nigh. The great and dreadful day of the Lord is near, even at the doors. D&C 1:12; 110:16
PURPOSE: It’s important that we prepare temporally as well as spiritually for the second coming. SONG: “I Want to Live the Gospel” CS 148 LESSON: Discuss the following situations:
Your math teacher gives you a surprise test. You’ve had no warning and no chance to study. The teacher tells you this is an important test and your final grade will be affected by how well you do. How do you feel? You are sitting in church and, without warning, the person conducting calls on you to come up to the pulpit and give a 5 minute talk. Are you prepared to give a talk? How do you feel? You are home alone at night and the lights go out because of a rain storm. You know where the candles, oil lamps and matches are, and how to light them. Even though you are alone, how do you feel?
Emphasize the difference in how you feel when you are not prepared for an event as to when you know what’s going to happen and can prepare for it.
Jesus has told us of a great event that is going to take place on the earth. It may happen while we are alive. It will be both frightening and exciting.
Read D&C 1:12 to find out what the event is. The event is Jesus coming to earth. How do we know for sure this will happen? (Because Jesus has said he is coming many times in the scriptures.) Why will it be frightening? Why will it be exciting? What does the word NIGH mean? (Near)
Tell the PARABLE OF THE FIG TREE (D&C) 45:37-39; 35:16) The parable of the fig tree says that when we see the fig tree sprouting leaves, we know summer is near. Likewise, when we see certain signs or events happening, we know the second coming is near.
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Except for Heavenly Father, no one knows the exact time when Jesus will come. (Matthew 24:36) However, we have been given signs, or told of specific events, that are going to take place before he comes. These signs are found in the scriptures and are given to us so we can be prepared.
Get a small bare tree limb. Secure the limb in a pot. Cut out paper leaves to represent signs of the times; write key words on the leaves to indicate what the signs are (see suggestions below or use your own thoughts). Punch a hole in the top of the leaves. Put the leaves in a basket. Have family members take turns drawing a leaf from the basket. What sign or event does the leaf represent? If the event has taken place or is presently happening, tie the leaf to the tree with yarn. If the event hasn’t yet happened, hold on to the leaf.
To prepare you may want to read the following scriptures: Isaiah 29:14; Matthew 24:3-8, 10- 14, 37-39; Malachi 4:1,5-6; 2 Timothy 3:1-5,7; D&C 27: 5-13; D&C 45:26-30, 33; 3 Nephi 21:9
WRITE ON THE LEAF DISCUSS A MARVELOUS WORK The Book of Mormon comes forth, gospel is restored BOOK NOT TRUE People do not believe the Book of Mormon is true WARS There are wars and rumors of war, countries fight each other INIQUITY Wickedness is everywhere, people are unholy LOVE WAX COLD Instead of love, people quarrel and destroy each other FALSE PROPHETS There are false prophets and false churches FAMINES There are famines and droughts, people are hungry PESTILENCES People suffer from diseases NOAH’S TIMES Like in Noah’s time the people don’t believe the signs EARTHQUAKES Earthquakes and other disasters occur in various places MISSIONARY WORK The gospel is preached to all the world SPIRIT OF ELIJAH People do genealogy work KNOWLEDGE Knowledge increases, but people still don’t believe in God PRIESTHOOD The priesthood is restored FIRE The earth is destroyed by fire DISOBEDIENT Children are not obedient to their parents UNTHANKFUL People do not show gratitude, are not thankful LOVE PLEASURE Peple love pleasure more than they love God
Remind your family that these are just a few of the many signs talked about in the scriptures, but it is evident that the fig tree is blooming and we are approaching summer or the time of the second coming. Stress the importance of your family being prepared both spiritually and temporally for Christ’s coming and the importance of living each day the best you can.
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#3 – HELP!!!
PURPOSE: Who to call for help in an emergency. SONG: “Seek the Lord Early” CS 108 LESSON: What would you do and who would you call for help in the following situations:
1. Your mother accidentally hits her head on the cupboard door and faints. You are the only one home with her. 2. During school recess you are playing tag with a friend. Your friend falls down on some glass and cuts their leg. 3. While riding bikes with neighborhood friends, you see fire coming from the roof of your house. 4. You are at the park swinging. A dog runs towards you with the intention of biting you. Your family is unable to reach you before the dog. 5. You and your brother are the first ones home from school. No one else is home. When you get inside your house, you hear someone breaking in through the kitchen window.
Prepare the pictures on the following pages ahead of time. Show the pictures as you discuss the different people you can call for help in an emergency. Besides a relative who may live in town, you can call: the police, fire department, Cub Scout leader, school teacher, Primary teacher, neighbor, nearby adult in the case of the dog in the park, family friend, home teacher, visiting teacher. Can you think of anyone else?
Read D&C 88:83 – Why is it important that we pray every day? That we learn how to pray while we are young? That we recognize answers to our prayers? That we learn to rely on Heavenly Father at all times and not just in emergencies?
If prayer is a daily part of our lives, then we will have the confidence Heavenly Father will hear us and help us in an emergency.
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Run this page off on heavy paper. Paste or draw pictures in the blank boxes, cut out and laminate into booklet form.
POLICEMAN FIREMAN
MY SCHOOL TEACHER IS MY PRIMARY TEACHER IS ______
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OUR VISITING TEACHER IS HEAVENLY FATHER ______
MY RELATIVE IS MY NEIGHBOR IS ______
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MY CUB SCOUT LEADER IS AN ADULT ______
MY FAMILY FRIENDS IS OUR HOME TEACHER IS ______
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#4 – 9-1-1
9-1-1 is a 24-Hour telephone number for Police, Fire, Ambulance and medical Emergency Services. A quick response to your 9-1-1 call depends upon the information you provide the operator.
PURPOSE: How to report an emergency. LESSON: Create a personalized “WHO TO CALL” emergency phone sheet specifically for your family. As a family, fill the sheet out and decide where to put it.
Who would you call in case of a fire? If someone were breaking into your house? If someone fell down the stairs and were badly hurt?
Using a play phone, practice dialing 9-1-1 and reporting an emergency. Review the information included in this lesson about calling 9-1-1 and the phone numbers on your “WHO TO CALL sheet.
How to report an emergency 1. Dial 9, then 1, then another 1. 2. Remain calm and speak clearly. 3. Tell the operator what the emergency is: a. What has happened? b. Who did it happen to? 4. Tell your name – first and last name. 5. Tell your address – street number and city. 6. Tell your phone number. 7. Stay on the telephone until the 9-1-1 operator hangs up first.
Children should understand that when they dial 9-1-1 the switchboard will lock in their telephone line. Even though they hang up, the operator will still be able to ring them back. Your phone line cannot be used until the 9-1-1 operator releases the line. Let the 9-1-1 operator hang up before you do.
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#5 – ONLY THE BASICS
And he left his house and his precious things, and took nothing with him, save it were his family, and provisions, and tents, and departed into the wilderness. 1 Nephi 2:4
PURPOSE: Prepare for an emergency evacuation of your home. SONG: “Quickly I’ll Obey” CS 197 LESSON: Tell the story of Lehi’s family leaving Jerusalem (1 Nephi 2:1-4)
Lehi and his family had to leave their home in a hurry. What provisions would they have needed to take in order to survive in the wilderness?
If your family had only a short time to gather a few things before leaving your home for good, what would you take with you?
Have an emergency evacuation drill. Pretend a nearby dam has collapsed and you have 5 minutes to evacuate your house. Your home will be destroyed and you will not be returning. Set a timer and give the family 5 minutes to gather what they can. Family members are to meet at a designated area (like the front door) with their items when the timer rings. Make no preparations ahead of time. The purpose of the drill is to emphasize the need for your family to have an emergency evacuation plan.
AFTER THE DRILL: What items did the family gather in 5 minutes? How long could the family survive on the items gathered? Was there a feeling of organization or chaos?
Prepare an EMERGENCY EVACUATION PLAN for your family. 1. What items would you need to take with you? 2. Where are the items kept? 3. Who will be responsible for what items? 4. What will you put the items in to carry? 5. How long will it take each person to gather the items they are responsible for? 6. Where will family members meet?
For refreshments, prepare a simple dessert from basic food items you would take with you. Remind your family that if you had to leave your home in a hurry, you could take only essential items with you. However, the most important item you’re taking is your family.
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Suggested items for an emergency evacuation America Red Cross Supply of water (one gallon per person per day) – store water in sealed unbreakable containers, identify the storage data, replace every six months. Supply of non-perishable packaged or canned food, a non-electric can opener, food for special diets. Change of clothing, rain gear, sturdy shoes. Blankets or sleeping bags. First Aid kit, prescription medications. Extra pair of eyeglasses, contact lens. Battery-powered radio, flashlight, plenty of extra batteries. Credit cards, cash, checks. Extra set of car keys. Personal hygiene items (soap, shampoo, toilet paper, toothbrush). Irreplaceable items such as photo albums, important papers, proper identification. Toys, games, books. Special items for infants, children, elderly, or disable family members.
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#6 – FOOD FOR 72-HOURS IN A MILK CARTON AND POP BOTTLE
And it came to pass that we did return without food to our families, and they did suffer much for the want of food. 1 Nephi 16:19
PURPOSE: Prepare a simple 72-Hour emergency food kit for each family member. SONG: “A Song of Thanks” CS 20
MATERIALS NEEDED FOR EACH PERSON: 1 two-liter pop container 1 half gallon milk carton (cardboard) Food items as suggested below Food contents and menu labels Stapler Duct Tape Scissors
INSTRUCTIONS: Wash and dry the pop container and fill with water. Wash and completely dry the milk cartons, or purchase unused cartons. Put the cans into the milk carton first, then add the drink and soup packets diagonally. Stuff the granola bars, gum, jerky, trail mix, and fruit rolls in around the cans. Tuck the gum and mints into gaps and wedges where it will fit. The other items can be strewn throughout the carton, filling any small gaps.
This packing requires some time, but it does work. The crackers will get crushed, but since they’re eaten in the soup that’s okay.
When the carton is packed full (it will be a tight fit), staple the top of the carton shut. It’s easier to have someone hold the top closed while you staple. Next, tape the top with duct tape, then take the filled pop container to the carton. Tape a food contents and a menu label to each carton and record the assemble date.
Your kit is now complete. Rotate the kits every two years so the food retains its nutritional value and remains fresh.
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72-HOUR EMERGENCY FOOD CONTENTS DATE: ______2 packages chewing gum 2 packages hot chocolate mix 1 ½ cups trail mix 2 sticks beef jerky 2 packages apple cider mix 1 small can apple juice 4 granola bars 13 pieces hard candy 2 fruit rolls 3 packages soda crackers 1 can hearty soup 2 instant soup mix packages 1 two-liter pop container with water
MENU Day 1 Breakfast 2 granola bars 1 can apple juice Lunch 1 package soup mix 1 package soda crackers Dinner 1 stick beef jerky 1 fruit roll Snacks 4 pieces candy 3 sticks gum Day 2 Breakfast ¾ cup trail mix 1 package hot chocolate Lunch 1 stick beef jerky 1 apple cider mix Dinner 1 can soup 1 package soda crackers Snacks 5 pieces of candy 4 sticks gum Day 3 Breakfast ¾ cup trail mix 1 package hot chocolate Lunch 1 package soup mix 1 package soda crackers Dinner 2 granola bars 1 fruit roll 1 package hot chocolate Snacks 4 pieces of gum 3 sticks of gum WATER 2 liters
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#7 – A SMALL AND SIMPLE THING
By small and simple things are great things brought to pass. Alma 37:6
PURPOSE: Make emergency burners for your 72-Hour emergency kits. SONG: “When We’re Helping” CS 198 LESSON: Gather together the following supplies:
Clean tuna fish cans Corrugated cardboard, but into strips slightly smaller than the height of the can Paraffin wax Old pan to melt paraffin in
Simple burners can be made by coiling strips of cardboard that are cut into widths just a little shorter than the inside of a tuna fish can. Fit the coiled cardboard tightly into the tuna can, then carefully pour melted paraffin wax over the cardboard to fill the can. When the wax is completely cooled and set, store these burners in watertight Ziplock bags.
To use your burner, light the cardboard with a match. The wax will keep the cardboard burning long enough to heat a can of stew or chili. For fun, try using one of your burners to heat dinner some evening.
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#8 – WHAT DO I DO IF THE LIGHTS GO OUT?
Walk in the light of your fire. Isaiah 50:11
PURPOSE: What to do in the event of a power failure. SONG: “I Am Glad for Many Things” CS 151 LESSON: Tell the story “When the Lights Went Out (from The Friend, January 1990)
What did this family do when the lights went out? What would your family do? Show family members where candles, oil lamps, wicks, matches and emergency flashlights are stored. Are these supplies easy to get to? Should these items be stored together in a certain place?
Pretend your lights have gone out. Have a Family Home evening like the family in the story. Get out the candles and warm clothing, and prepare dinner without electricity. Have children practice lighting candles, oil lamps, replacing wicks etc.
What does your family need to do to be better prepared in the event of an electrical power failure that would last for more than a day?
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When the Lights Went Out By Mary Beth Pruett
“Look,” Jessica said, pointing to the window. “It’s snowing.”
We ran to look outside. The tiny flakes started falling faster and faster. Then the flakes got bigger. They fell in swirls and swoops, and sometimes we could hardly see the barn through the curtain of white. By the time we finished lunch, the snow was three feet deep.
We watched from the window, feeling snug and warm inside the house. The cedar trees bent and swayed under their load, and the mailbox wore a thick white muff. Every now and then we heard a sharp crack as a limb broke under the weight of the snow.
Suddenly the lights blinked—once, twice. We held our breaths. Mom hurried about, setting out candles and filling the oil lamp on the mantel. The lights flickered again, then gave up.
“Listen to the quiet,” said Jessica. There was no television, no radio, no hum from the refrigerator. The only sound we heard was the tick of the grandfather clock by the front door.
David brought an armful of wood from the shed for the fireplace and soon had a blaze crackling and popping. We all gathered around the hearth, bundling into our warmest clothes. Our dog, Duke, crept closer to the fire and curled up for a nap.
The wind howled around the house, and I was glad to be inside. “What about the ponies?” asked Jessica. “Will they get cold?”
“They’re safe inside the barn,” said Dad. “I put extra straw in their stalls.”
For supper we roasted hot dogs in the fireplace and ate off of paper plates. It was just like a picnic. We toasted marshmallows for dessert. I let mine burn on the outside so that they were crisp and almost black. Inside they were gooey and hot.
“Mmmm,” said Jessica, licking her sticky fingers. “I wish the electricity would go off every day.”
“I’ll bet you’d soon get tired of that,” Mom said.
“Well, it’s time for family home evening,” Dad said and brought out his guitar. He played while we sang “I Am a Child of God.” David said an opening prayer. Then, by the light of the oil lamp, Mom read us the story of the brother of Jared. The flickering candles made spooky shadows against the walls. I sat close to Dad, glad to be by the fire.
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Afterward, we sang “Over in the Meadow” all the way through, and “Bingo” and “Old MacDonald” and “Frosty the Snowman.”
“We can make a snowman tomorrow,” I said.
David turned Duke out. When he came back inside, he looked like a snow dog. Jessica dried him off with a towel.
We knelt together for family prayer, then went to bed early in our warmest pajamas and with extra blankets piled on our beds. “May we have waffles for breakfast tomorrow?” I asked as Mom tucked me in.
“We’ll have cold cereal if the power is still out,” Mom reminded me.
The moon was bright, and I could see its reflection on the snow from my window. Everything looked strange and different. The house sounded different too.
I woke up in the middle of the night. My nose was cold. Suddenly, I heard a click and a hum. The electricity was back on! I heard the furnace start, and I snuggled deeper into my blankets. The house would be warm again by morning. Maybe there would be waffles for breakfast, after all.
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#9 – FIRE SAFETY IN THE HOME
Through the fire thou shalt not be burned. Isaiah 43:2
PURPOSE: Teach fire safety in the home. SONG: “I Am Glad for Many Things” CS 151 LESSON: Divide this lesson into several Family Home Evenings
FIRE SAFETY: Take a tour of your home. AS you move from room to room discuss things in each room that could burn. What fire hazards do you see? (You might purposely set up a few, like leaving the iron plugged in but turned off, setting a plastic toy on the stove next to a burner that’s off, leaving a pile of rags by a can of paint thinner).
Point out the smoke detectors in your home. Demonstrate how a detector works by holding a lighted candle about six inches under it.
When you have finished your fire inspection, review the objects in your home that are flammable and the fire hazards you saw.
FIRE SAFETY RULES: Discuss how to protect your home from fire. Some safety rules to think about are: Don’t play with matches or lighters. Don’t set object too close to heaters, fireplaces, or kitchen stoves. Don’t overload an electrical outlet. Make sure a fire in the fireplace is out before leaving the room. Watch the stove while cooking. Don’t keep dirty rags in a pile. Unplug electrical appliances when finished using them. Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen – if you don’t have one, how do you put out a grease fire on the stove? (baking soda or metal lid)
SMOKE DETECTORS: What are the best places to install smoke detectors? Outside the bedrooms? Over the kitchen stove? Near heating vents? How man smoke detectors does your house need? Most home fires involving deaths happen at night when people are sleeping. Contrary to popular belief, the smell of smoke may not wake someone asleep. Poisonous gases and smoke produced by fire numb the senses, putting victims into a deeper sleep.
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Smoke detectors should be placed outside each bedroom and on every level of the home, including the basement. Install detectors in or near dens, living rooms, dining rooms and family rooms. Detectors are not recommended for kitchens, bathrooms, or garages where cooking fumes, steam or exhaust could set off false alarms. Heating or air conditioning vents could blow smoke away from a detector while your house is filling with smoke. Batteries should be changes at least once a year and should never be taken out of the detector for other uses. Cleaning is important. Dust and cobwebs can reduce an alarm’s sensitivity to smoke.
PLAN A FIRE ESCAPE: When a fire occurs in your home, there is no time for planning. Planning and practicing escape routes now with your family could one day save lives if a fire does break out. Draw a floor plan of your house: Show windows, doors, stairs and halls. Mark two ways out of every room. Practice your escape plan: Have a fire drill in your home twice a year. Make it realistic by pretending some escape routes are blocked. Agree on a meeting place: The spot should be outside your home where family members can gather to wait for the Fire Department. This allows you time to count heads and inform the Fire Department if anyone is trapped inside. Make sure children understand they DO NOT go back into the house for any reason – not even to get a pet. If you are trapped: Close all doors between you and the fire. Stuff the cracks around the doors to keep out smoke. Wait at a window or signal for help with a light-colored cloth or a flashlight. If there is a phone nearby, call the Fire Department and tell them where you are.
FIRE SAFETY ACTIVITIES
GETTING OUT A WINDOW: If you choose a window for an emergency exit, make sure it is possible to reach the ground safely. If a bedroom window does not open easily, what can be used in the room to break the glass? What can you cover yourself with so the glass will not cut you as you break the window? If you break a window, knock out the jagged glass as best you can. Throw bedding over the window sill for protection against cuts. If there is no one to help you get down from a high window, teach up bed sheets and tie them together to make a rope.
Practice tearing up an old bed sheet, making a rope, tying it to something, and climbing out a ground-level window with the rope.
GETTING OUT OF BED: Most fires in which people get hurt happen at night when the family is asleep.
Question: How should you get out of bed if you smell smoke or see fire?
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Answer: Roll out of bed, drop to the floor and crawl along the floor. Question: Why should you stay low? Answer: To stay below the smoke. Question: What do you do before opening a door during a fire? Answer: Touch the door. If it’s hot, do not open. If it’s cool, open slowly. Close it if heat or smoke rushes in. Question: What if you can’t open the door because it’s hot? Answer: Use the second escape route.
Practice getting out of bed and checking a closed door for fire.
STOP, DROP AND ROLL: A fire must have oxygen to burn. If your clothing catches fire, remember to follow these 3 steps:
STOP running DROP to the ground ROLL back and forth (cover your face with your hands)
Practice STOP, DROP AND ROLL Materials needed: String and balloons
Cut a piece of string long enough to tie around each child’s waist Blow up 3 balloons and tie the balloons to the string. The child says STOP, DROP and ROLL then falls to the ground and rolls back and forth until the balloons pop.
FIRST AID FOR MINOR BURNS: Remind children to immerse the burned area in cold water. It should then be covered with a clean, dry cloth or a loose bandage until an adult can look at it.
Try this activity to help children remember how to treat a minor burn. Materials needed: Crayons, white drawing paper, blue watercolor markers (Crayola markers work well)
Using a crayon have the child draw around their hand and color in their handprint. Use a blue watercolor marker to create drops of water on the waxy areas of the handprint. Dip the picture in a pan of water and quickly lift it out. The water drops will run across the hand.
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#10 – POISON PATROL
The effect thereof is poison. Mosiah 7:30
“Do not touch, do not taste, and do not smell.”
Did you know: Children are naturally attracted to colorful household products, many of which are poisonous but look like candy, soft drinks or other harmless substances.
PURPOSE: Poison safety at home. LESSON: Go on a Poison Patrol around your kitchen, bathroom, laundry and garage area. Post the Poison Control Center telephone number by your phone.
Poison Patrol – Take a safety tour When you are poison proofing your home or taking a safety tour with young children, consider the following checklist of things to be concerned about. While this is not an exhaustive list, it’s a good starting point. Point out products that are not to be touched, tasted or smelled. It can be especially useful when talking with children to ask them to point out poisons. Use this list to get things rolling.
Kitchen – dishwashing detergent, liquid dish soap, scouring soup, window cleaner, over cleaner, medicines, vitamins, furniture polish, drain cleaner/opener, ammonia Garage – gasoline, kerosene, car wax/soaps, weed killers/pesticides, paint, windshield washer fluid, antifreeze Laundry Room – laundry detergent, bleach, fabric softener, dye Closet/Store Spaces – rat/ant poisons, moth balls & sprays Miscellaneous – flaking paint, broken plaster Bathroom – cosmetic products, shampoo, medications, cleansers, lotions, perfume, Purse – medicines/pain killers, cosmetics
Ten Poison Prevention Tips 1. Keep medicines, vitamins and household cleaning products, even those with safety caps out of sight, out of reach and preferably locked up. 2. Always store pesticides out of children’s reach, in a locked cabinet or storage shed. 3. Before applying pesticides remove children and pets (and their toys) from the area and keep them away until it is dry or as recommended on the label. 4. Keep items in their original containers and read the label before using. 5. Refer to medicine as “medicine” and not as candy. 6. Do not take medicine in front of children. They often imitate adult behavior.
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7. Remember to place purses or jackets containing medications out of children’s reach. 8. Keep a one-ounce bottle of Ipecac Syrup in your home. Use it only if told to do so by the Poison Center or your doctor. Ipecac induces vomiting to help clear the system of poison. 9. Keep the telephone numbers of the Poison Center and local hospital readily available. 10. If your child swallows a substance that is NOT food, call the Utah Idaho Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222.
What you should do if someone is poisoned First and foremost, remain calm Then locate and telephone a Poison Prevention Center as soon as possible For the call, you could be asked the following questions: The age of the patient Your name and telephone number The name of the product and the ingredients Amount of the poison involved The time the poisoning occurred Any symptoms present in the patient If you are instructed to go to the hospital or another emergency facility, always bring the original container of the suspected substance with you!
Types of poisoning incidents and possible responses Poisoning on the skin – Remove all contaminated clothing and flood the skin with water for 10 minutes. Then, wash the affected area gently with soap and water and rinse thoroughly. Poison in the eye – Flood the eye with lukewarm (not hot) water poured from a large glass 2 to 3 inches from the eye. Repeat for 15 minutes. Have the patient blink as much as possible while flooding the eye. Do not force the eyelids open. Poison by inhalation – Immediately get the person to fresh air. Avoid breathing fumes. Open all doors and windows wide. If victim is not breathing, then start artificially respiration. Poison by swallowing – Medicine: Do not give anything by mouth until calling for advice. Chemical or Household Products: Unless the patient is unconscious, having convulsions, or cannot swallow – give milk or water immediately. Then call for professional advice about whether you should make the patient vomit or not.
Always keep on hand at home a one-ounce bottle of Ipecac Syrup for each child in the home. Use only on advice of a professional. Remember, say calm, and seek professional help as soon as possible.
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#11 – QUAKE SAFETY
And there shall be eathquakes also in divers places, and many desolations. D&C 45:33
PURPOSE: What to do if an earthquake occurs. SONG: Shimmy-Shimmy-Shake! (follows lesson) LESSON: Before you give the lesson, talk to someone who has been in an earthquake. Since Utah is located in an earthquake zone, it’s vital your family be safe and know what to do.
Making your family Quake-Safe Know what to do during and after an earthquake. An important step to earthquake preparedness is to survey your home for possible hazards and then take action to lessen those hazards, such as moving beds away from windows and shelves, anchoring bookcases to wall studs, moving heavy objects off top shelves. Designate the safety spots and the danger zones inside and outside your home. Have an earthquake drill. Practice getting under a table, crouching in a corner or doorway. Do you have earthquake emergency supplies on hand? Pick a family member or friend who lives in another state (someone outside your area) to be your contact person. Make sure every family member knows the person’s phone number and address. Teach family members how and when to turn off gas, electricity and water.
Earthquake Safety Rules Stay calm. Gather your grit. Don’t panic and don’t run. Expect loud noises. The rolling and roaring will terrify you. Talk to yourself out loud during the noise, expressing your fear. Avoid falling objects. The greatest hazard in an earthquake is not the earth swallowing you up but objects falling on you.
If you are inside, stay inside At the first indication of shaking ground, immediately take cover. Duck, cover and hold o Duck under a table o Stay under cover until the shaking stops o Hold on to the desk or table leg if it slides. Keep your hands off the floor to avoid injury from moving furniture.
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Stand or crouch in a strong supported doorway. Brace yourself on an inside corner of the house. Grab something to protect your head and face (blanket, coat, cardboard box) or cover your arms if you are not under a table or desk. Stay away from: o Overhead light fixtures o Windows, sliding glass doors, shower doors, mirrors and other glass that might shatter o Bookcases, cabinets, dressers and tall furniture that could topple over. o Heating units, stoves, fireplaces and chimneys o Elevators and stairways Don’t run outside. The most dangerous thing to do during the shaking of an earthquake is to leave a building because objects can fall on you. Keep a pair of shows by your bed at night. Turn off the stove if you are in the kitchen.
If you are outside, stay there Stay away from buildings, walls, trees, telephone poles, power poles, lamp posts, power lines and bridges. Move to an open area. If you’re in a moving car, stop. Stay in the car.
After the shaking stops Do not turn on electrical switches or light matches. Wear sturdy shoes and protective clothing. Check for injuries. Do not attempt to move seriously injured people unless they are in danger of further injury. Be prepared for aftershocks. Inspect your home for damage – check gas, water, power, sewage lines; appliances; turn off utilities; check for cracks in chimney, foundation. Listen to a portable radio for emergency information. Use telephones only for emergency calls. Clean up any dangerous spills, broken glass and other hazards. Do not venture out into heavily damaged areas. If you smell gas, open a window; put out small fires. Take “after the quake” photos of damaged areas before cleaning up. Do not eat or drink anything from opened containers. Do not go without food or water for long. Food is vital in maintaining your morale and strength after a disaster. Do not drive unless absolutely necessary. Practice strict sanitation. Find meaningful tasks for children to do to keep busy.
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Earthquake Emergency Supplies Portable radio with extra batteries Flashlight and extra batteries First Aid Kit Week’s supply of medicine Blankets 72-Hour supply of food and water
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Shimmy – Shimmy – Shake! (Tune: Old McDonald’s Farm)
VERSE 1: Rollin’, rockin’, shakin’ ground. Shimmy – shimmy – shake! It’s really hard not to fall down. Shimmy – shimmy – shake!
CHORUS: With a rattle here And a rumble there, Here a rattle, there a rumble Everywhere a rattle rumble Rollin’, rockin’, shakin’ ground. Shimmy – shimmy – shake!
VERSE 2: Duck for cover we’re havin’ a ‘quake. Shimmy – shimmy – shake! Get under a desk where you’ll be safe. Shimmy – shimmy – shake!
CHORUS: Repeat
VERSE 3: Hold onto a leg if you should slide. Shimmy – shimmy – shake! Tuck your head and close your eyes. Shimmy – shimmy – shake!
CHORUS: Repeat
VERSE 4: Stay where you’re at ‘til the shakin’ ends. Shimmy – shimmy – shake! Talk out loud to a make-believe friend. Shimmy – shimmy – shake!
CHORUS: Repeat
VERSE 5: Sing this song and before you know, Shimmy – shimmy – shake! The quake is over and you can go. Shimmy – shimmy – shake!
CHORUS: Repeat
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#12 – LOST IN THE OUTDOORS
He was lost, and is found. Luke 15:24
PURPOSE: Learn outdoor safety rules. SONG: Your families favorite camp song. LESSON: What would you do if you were lost in a department store? In your neighborhood? In a new school on the first day? What if you were lost in the woods?
Use the Outdoor Safety Rules to teach family members what to do should they become lost while outdoors.
Make a simple survival bag to take with you whenever you go hiking or camping. This could be a small canvas bag that hangs from your belt and includes: a whistle, small mirror, waterproof matches, pieces of candy, small knife, pencil, paper, safety pin, Band-Aids and other items you feel important for your survival. Demonstrate how to use the whistle and the mirror to signal with, the difference between a regular match and waterproof matches, how to handle a knife and what you would use the knife for (emphasize it is not a toy and is used only in emergencies). Explain the use of other items you have included.
Play “Hide and Seek.” Take turns hiding or “being lost” and using items from your survival bag to be found.
Take a hike. Enjoy the scenery, have fun. At a point when everyone appears to be interested in different things, stop. Announce that you are lost. Together make a simple map of the trail you have hiked by having family members recall things they noticed along the way. Help the children understand how to retrace their steps and remember important landmarks.
Outdoor Safety Rules Should You Get Lost Don’t panic – Sit down where you’re at. Try to relax. Don’t rush off in different directions. Think – Your best survival tool is your brain. Gather rocks and mark the spot where you’re at. If you retrace your steps, mark your trail with rocks, broken branches or strips of cloth. Look for your shoeprints in loose and muddy dirt. Look for familiar sights. Do you recognize a hill, stream, rock formations, tree? Hug a Tree – If you have no idea where you are, stay put. Find a well-sheltered area close to a clearing and stay where you are. Let others find you. A search will begin as soon as it’s noticed you’re missing. Empty your Pockets – See what you have that you can use.
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Look Around – If there’s a high spot nearby, climb it for a view. Does anything look familiar? Make Yourself Visible – In a clearing, spread a bright colored article of clothing on the ground to catch the eye of a rescue pilot. If you hear a plane overhead, life down with your arms and legs outstretched. Use a mirror or a tin can to signal with. Make Noise – Shout or blow a whistle. It will scare animals away and will let searchers know where you are. Don’t waste your voice yelling unnecessarily. The universal distress call is some signal repeated three times at frequent intervals - - three shouts or three blasts on a whistle. Gather Wood for a Fire – Of all distress signals, a fire is the most effective. Build your fire on a high, clear spot - - a bright one at night, a smoky one in daylight. For a smoky fire, toss grass or green leaves on the flames. If wood is plentiful, three fires in a triangle signals distress. Prepare for the Night – Before dark collect enough wood to last the night. Find shelter against a rock or under the cover of trees. Try to Think Positive Thoughts – You can go for three days without water and three weeks without food. Lots of people will be looking for you. Pray – Don’t forget to pray. Ask Heavenly Father to bless you with a spirit of peace, with the ability to think clearly and make right decisions and for protection while you are lost.
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#13 – SAFETY FIRST
O remember and learn wisdom in thy youth. Alma 37:35
PURPOSE: Review safety rules. SONG: “Family Night” CS 195 LESSON: You will need a small ball to throw.
Have the family sit or stand in a circle. Point out that this game will help them be alert to think quickly, which is something they need to do in an emergency. The object is to correctly complete the safety rules.
Call a child’s name, throwing the child the ball. The child is to catch the ball and complete the sentence. If the child misses the ball or gives the wrong answer, repeat the sentence again and throw the ball to another child. If that child answers correctly, he/she throws the ball to someone else as you give a new safety rule. The game continues until you’ve covered the safety rules you want to review and everyone has had several turns.
Example of Safety Rules: Cross the street when the light is _____ and you have looked _____. (Green, both ways) In an earthquake you should duck under a _____. (Desk) Never accept rides with a _____. (Stranger) Never tell anyone over the telephone you are home _____. (Alone) When you ride in a car you always wear a _____. (Seatbelt) Don’t pet a strange _____. (Animal) If you’re riding your bicycle and want to turn a corner, use your _____ as a signal. (Arm) In an emergency dial _____. (9-1-1) When you are in a boat you wear a _____. (Life jacket) If you find matches or a lighter, do not _____. (Play with them) If you are home alone and someone knocks on the door, do not _____. (Open the door) Keep emergency phone numbers by the _____. (Telephone) If your clothes catch on fire, you should stop, _____. (Drop and roll) If you can’t remember to dial 9-1-1 in an emergency, dial _____. (0 for operator) To protect yourself from smoke during a fire, stay _____. (Low) Never put a plastic bag over your _____. (Head) If you get lost in the woods, you need to stay _____. (Where you are)
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#14 – FAMILY SURVIVAL DAY
Watch, therefore, that ye may be ready. D&C 50:46
PURPOSE: Spend a day testing your preparedness and emergency skills. LESSON: If possible, make no advance preparations for this day so that you can have a more accurate test of your emergency readiness.
Without letting family members know in advance, choose a day where you will turn off all modern conveniences to practice surviving during an emergency. Rather than stocking up on food or other things you will need that day, use only what you already have on hand.
Before the family wakes up, go through the house and tape up all light switches, unplug appliances (except for refrigerator, freezer or anything else that may cause food to spoil or cause a true medical emergency), and turn the water off (it may be a good idea to keep the toilets running, however!).
As the day goes on, you may find your family learning to be very creative in their efforts to survive. You will be able to test your family’s available resources to cook meals (propane stoves, barbeques, emergency burners), stay warm and keep each other entertained.
Keep a running list of the things you learn you may need in case of a true emergency, such as: Flashlights, batteries, extra blankets, propane or gasoline, more rounded food storage, fresh water, etc.
It may be easy and fun to try surviving for one day, but you can also learn a lot. Use this experience to think about what you would do for an extended emergency or if you were unable to stay in your home during an emergency. As a follow-up to this activity, make additions to and improve your home storage and emergency preparations.
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#15 – AND YE WILL NOT SUFFER YOUR CHILDREN THAT THEY GO HUNGRY
In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread. Genesis 3:19
PURPOSE: Prepare granola for your family’s food storage. SONG: “For Health and Strength” CS 21 LESSON: Purchase the ingredients li or Mountain Valley Granola (following page) or use your own favorite recipe.
President Brigham Young said: “If you are without bread, how much wisdom can you boast, and what utility are your talents, if you cannot procure for yourselves and save against a day of scarcity those substances designed to sustain your natural lives: If you cannot provide for your natural lives, how can you expect to have wisdom to obtain eternal lives?”
Tell the story “The Ant and the Grasshopper”
As member of the church, we have been taught independence, industry, thrift and self-reliance. We have been reminded many times about the importance of personal and family preparedness. Although this preparedness involves many elements, home food production and storage is one of the key elements.
Make a small batch of homemade granola for your home storage. Use the recipe on the following page or your own recipe. If your family likes the cereal, the recipe can be easily doubled or quadrupled and stored in Ziploc bags in the freezer for up to a year.
It is recommended that we use and rotate our food storage regularly. This ensures that food will be relatively fresh and usable, and that the family is accustomed to eating this type of food.
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Mountain Valley Granola
4 cups quick cooking or regular oats ¼ cup unsalted sunflower seeds ½ cup shredded coconut ¼ cup wheat germ ½ cup brown sugar ¼ cup sesame seeds ¾ cup whole wheat flour (freshly ground)
Mix together and pour over the dry ingredients: ¼ cup cooking oil 1 teaspoon salt (optional) 2 tablespoons honey or Karo syrup
Let your children mix this together with clean hands until the mixture is crumbly. Spread on a cookie sheet and bake for 2 hours at 250 , stirring every half-hour. When the cereal has cooled, you may add the following: pecans, raisins, dehydrated apples, apricots, bananas, dates or blueberries.
You can even have your children make their own batches with their favorite additional ingredients. Keep refrigerated in Ziploc bags the amount your family will use for a week. Freeze the rest in usable portions.
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The Ant and the Grasshopper Aesop’s Fable
In a field one summer's day a grasshopper was hopping about, chirping and singing to its heart's content. A group of ants walked by, grunting as they struggled to carry plump kernels of corn.
"Where are you going with those heavy things?" asked the grasshopper.
Without stopping, the first ant replied, "To our ant hill. This is the third kernel I've delivered today."
"Why not come and sing with me," teased the grasshopper, "instead of working so hard?"
"We are helping to store food for the winter," said the ant, "and think you should do the same."
"Winter is far away and it is a glorious day to play," sang the grasshopper.
But the ants went on their way and continued their hard work.
The weather soon turned cold. All the food lying in the field was covered with a thick white blanket of snow that even the grasshopper could not dig through. Soon the grasshopper found itself dying of hunger.
He staggered to the ants' hill and saw them handing out corn from the stores they had collected in the summer. He begged them for something to eat.
"What!" cried the ants in surprise, "haven't you stored anything away for the winter? What in the world were you doing all last summer?"
"I didn't have time to store any food," complained the grasshopper; "I was so busy playing music that before I knew it the summer was gone."
The ants shook their heads in disgust, turned their backs on the grasshopper and went on with their work.
Don't forget -- there is a time for work and a time for play!
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#16 – BUILD A HEALTHY BODY
And all saints who remember to keep and do these sayings, walk in obedience to the commandments, shall receive health in the navel and marrow to their bones; D&C 89:18-20
PURPOSE: Learn the basics of good nutrition and what our physical body needs to be healthy. PREP: You will need a magazine to cut out pictures for a food pyramid chart. Keep a small plant of flower away from sun and water for one of two weeks before this lesson is given. SONG: “For Health and Strength” CS 21 LESSON: Show your family a plant that has not received water or sun for some time. Why is the plant wilted? Compare it to other plants that have been watered. Explain that every living thing needs water and the right foods to grow strong and healthy.
Our physical body is so important that Heavenly Father and Jesus have given us rules on how to keep our body healthy. These rules are called the Word of Wisdom. Read D&C 89:18-20 (or the whole section if your family is older).
The Word of Wisdom was given to Joseph Smith in 1833. At that time people did not have the information about nutrition we have today. It is interesting that almost every day scientists are making new discoveries about what is and is not healthy for us. Yet, we have had this information all along in the Word of Wisdom.
As a family cut food pictures from magazines to make a Food Pyramid. Be certain to include items for the: Bread & Cereal Group, Fruit Group, Vegetable Group, Meat Group, Milk Group, and Fats & Sweets. Set a family goal for one week to eat better balanced meals and healthier food. Put up your food chart as a reminder.
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#17 – A PENNY SAVED
Do not spend money for that which is of no worth nor your labor for that which cannot satisfy. 2 Nephi 9:51
PURPOSE: Learn to discern the difference between wants and needs. PREP: Collect 20 pennies for each child in your family. Gather items from your home to represent food, shelter, clothing, transportation, tithing, savings, toys. This lesson is geared toward younger children and is, therefore, simplified. If your children are older, you may want to add other expense categories, such as medial, sports equipment, gas for the car, college. SONGS: “Give Said the Little Stream” CS 236 LESSON: Set up the room with the objects you have gathered. Assign a price to each item between 3 and 5 cents. Keep in mind that the object of the lesson is to help children understand about making choices between what is needed and what is wanted, not necessarily to give them a realistic overview of the family budget.
Give each family member 20 pennies to take turns shopping with this money. As you go along, explain to your children the need to use their money for the necessities first. Discuss the consequences of not choosing to spend money first for clothing, food or shelter.
1 Timothy 5:8 states, “But if any provide not for his own, and especially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith and is worse than an infidel.” Discuss the responsibility parents have to use money wisely so family members are fed, clothed and sheltered. Ask your children to think about what it would be like if the family money was spent on something fun like a trip to Disneyland and there was no money left for food, medicine, clothes or to make payments on he house and car.
Explain the commandment of tithing and the blessings that come by paying tithing. Point out that Heavenly Father has given us all that we have and all He asks in return is that we pay our tithing. Read Malachi 3:10 with your family.
After tithing has been paid and the necessities paid for, let the children discuss what they would do with any money left over. Help them understand that although there may not be enough pennies for everything they may want, they can save their money until they have enough for something special.
Consider giving your children a reasonable allowance or paying them for doing special chores so they can learn to pay tithing and manage their money at an early age.
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#18 – SEW SIMPLE
PURPOSE: Teach simple sewing basics. SONG: “If You’re Happy” CS 266 LESSON: Read Genesis 3:7
From this scripture we learn that Adam and Eve sewed clothing for themselves while they were in the Garden of Eden. What do you think Adam and Eve used for a needle and thread? How did Adam and Eve learn to sew? Who taught them?
Why is it important for both boys and girls to know how to sew?
Give each family member a needle, thread, 2 pieces of material and a button.
Learn how to: Thread a needle Tie a knot at the end of the thread Hand sew a straight line Sew on a button Sew 2 pieces of material together
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#19 – CAMPFIRE LIGHT
To another is given knowledge that all may be taught to be wise. D&C 46:18
PURPOSE: Teach children how to build a campfire. LESSON: Take your family to a spot where they can experience building and cooking over a fire.
Teach children the simple basics of campfire cooking. Explain that fire can provide light, warmth and can be used to cook food. But fires are dangerous and should always be handled with great caution. Always follow fire safety rules. Fire building and cooking skills should be taught over a period of time at the appropriate age and maturity level of the children.
Gather the Wood. Show and explain different sizes of wood to gather and how to lay out different types of campfires. Tinder – Fine twigs, pine needles, thin pieces of bark, dried leaves and grass Kindling – Large dried sticks that snap when broken Fuel – Large pieces of wood, logs
Starting the Fire. Your family may want to make one or two fire-starting methods to store in your 72-Hour kits. Flint and Steel – Pieces of flint, steel and steel wool or tinder Batteries and steel wool – Flashlight batteries and steel wool Fuzz stick – Whittle stick and leave shavings on end. Waterproof matches – Dip white-tipped matches in melted paraffin
Maintaining the Fire. As the fire grows, add fuel (large pieces of wood).
Putting out the Fire. Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving. Wet the area around the fire with water. Sprinkle (not pour) water on the fire (to avoid getting burned by steam). Spread the coals around with a stick, sprinkling water on the coals. Pour water on the fire, stir wet coals until ashes are cold to the touch of the hand. Replace sod where removed, leave the spot looking as if you hadn’t been there.
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APPENDIX 1 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS GAME
Often when I watch the news on television, I see reports of natural disasters. With each new report, I am reminded of the counsel given by Church leaders to be prepared. Since our family did not have an emergency supply kit and preparing one seemed overwhelming, I wanted to find a doable solution. As my husband and I counseled together, we realized that we didn’t have to accomplish the task alone—we could enlist our children’s help.
To involve everyone and make preparing for an emergency seem fun instead of daunting or upsetting, we decided to have a scavenger hunt as part of family home evening. Together we could gather items for an emergency preparedness kit. Considering family members’ individual needs, I made a list of supplies for our search. For starters, the baby would need a bottle, formula, and diapers, while my husband would need sturdy clothes and work gloves. I also found ideas from information I had saved from Home, Family, and Personal Enrichment lessons.
At the start of our family night, we discussed possible natural disaster situations and the importance of being prepared so we don’t have to be afraid (see D&C 38:30). After our discussion, we divided our family into teams and gave each group an empty laundry basket and part of our list. Then we had our scavenger hunt throughout the house, collecting the needed supplies. The children had a great time gathering the items and choosing which clothing to include. Within an hour, we had items for a complete emergency kit—tailored for our family’s needs. What once had seemed an overwhelming task became a fun activity for our family, and we now feel better prepared should an emergency arise.
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APPENDIX 2 EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS ACTIVITY INVOLVING CHILDREN
I found a GREAT way to get the children involved and keep them busy. We had a food storage dinner and booths covering subjects like sanitation, 72 hr kits, water, emergency fuel/power sources, etc. There was going to be a lot for the children to do, BUT...the person who was in charge of games had family illness at the last minute and the fire truck was called away to a fire...so my husband came up with a great idea. We printed off "tokens" for each booth and for the food table. Each token had some sort of emergency item on it (food, shelter, fuel, 72 hr kit, water, etc.). Each time a child went to a booth and listened to the information, asked a question or participated in a game, they got a token. If they tried a new food, they got a token also. Several times during the evening there were mock emergencies (I announced the scenario by microphone. It was very last minute so there wasn't any official writing down of scenarios.) If the children had the token that matched the solution to the emergency then they were rewarded for preparedness with tootsie rolls. There was an emergency evacuation and they needed their 72 hr kits and a tent. There was an ice storm where they needed fuel and water. There was a run on the grocery store due to an impending storm and they needed their food storage, etc. The reward only applied to tokens the children already had (they couldn't come back in 10 minutes after getting the token) and it only applied to children that were in the room at the moment (which kept them in the gym). I had disaster coloring books and a disaster memory game at each table with crayons to keep them busy in the mean time. It went really well and all the children participated. I then offered tootsie rolls to all the children who helped clean up and you should have seen them running around folding chairs. It was great. This was a quick, easy fix to what could have been a DISASTER!
You could really use any items on the tokens and come up with endless scenarios. I wanted the children to realize that if they were prepared and educated in advance that when there was an emergency they'd be ready (and rewarded).
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APPENDIX 3 5 CREATIVE WAYS TO TEACH PREPAREDNESS TO YOUR CHILD
Ask any survival-minded adult why they’re into preparedness, and they’ll likely offer at least a half-dozen reasons. Ask a child why there’s a closet filled with cans of tuna and buckets of wheat, and there’s no telling what answer they’ll give. Depending on what they’ve been taught, those supplies may be a constant reminder of a foreboding future, full of threats and uncertainty. On the other hand, stored food, stockpiled ammo, and 55 gallon water containers may be accepted as a natural part of life, along with the understanding that these supplies exist to help out in an emergency.
Children fear what they don’t understand. When a difficult concept such as preparedness is presented in a creative way, at their level, it helps them feel reassured and satisfied. Here are five creative ways to teach this concept to your children in ways that will reinforce important concepts and include a lot of fun along the way.
When you explain your preparedness efforts, use examples from children’s literature that children of all ages can relate to. The story of Joseph from the Bible is an excellent example of preparing for difficult times and then being able to provide for others in need. The Little House on the Prairie book series by Laura Ingalls Wilder follows a pioneer family through good times and bad. Each book is a great source of information about practical skills from hand-stitching to making homemade butter to smoking wild game as well as great examples of self-sufficiency. If your children are very young, Little House picture books are available at the library and in bookstores. Teach practical skills. Kids should know how to cook, clean, and scrub the kitchen floor! Learning how to mend ripped jeans or do laundry isn’t child abuse. They’re real life skills that teach independence and instill a healthy work ethic. Older children can be taught target shooting, how to put up a tent and how to start a campfire. I’m all in favor plentiful play time, but children also need to learn skills and knowledge that are truly worth learning.
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Children naturally love learning about animals and there’s no better source for examples of preparedness than the animals they’re already familiar with. Bears, squirrels and other forest animals get ready for the winter. Geese begin a long trek south when they sense that cold weather is near. Did you know that prairie dogs purposely mound up the earth around the entrances to their homes so rain doesn’t flood their burrows? My own children love The Burgess Book of Animals, which uses entertaining stories to teach facts about dozens of animals. Keep an eye on current events. Don’t focus on details that might terrify your kids, but if the Weather Channel is reporting on an approaching hurricane, for example, talk about the steps families in those areas should be taking. Participate in activities that teach or reinforce preparedness. Scout programs and 4-H are ideal for children to learn some terrific practical skills and socialize with other like- minded kids. You just can’t beat that combination.
Everyone loves learning something new, especially when there’s fun involved. Keep your lessons about preparedness casual, creative, and fun. Your kids will discover the future isn’t something to be feared and will figure that everyone in the neighborhood must also have boxes of freeze-dried food under every bed!
***Adapted from the Preparedness Packet found at www.theideadoor.com***
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