Why give a child their own survival kit?
A family emergency kit covers shared household supplies, but a child's kit can serve a different purpose. It gives them a small, age-appropriate role in the family plan and keeps a few supplies meant specifically for them together.
That doesn't mean a child needs to be responsible for their own emergency supplies. Depending on their age, their kit might be something they carry themselves, something a parent carries for them, or something kept alongside the family's main emergency gear.
The goal is simple: help them know that the family has a plan and give them an appropriate way to be part of it.
How do children experience emergencies differently?
Emergencies can interrupt the routines children rely on. They may spend hours without power, sleep somewhere unfamiliar, leave home unexpectedly, or simply notice that the adults around them are doing things differently.
Preparedness doesn't have to be frightening. Children can participate in simple, age-appropriate ways, such as choosing a comfort item, learning where the family's emergency supplies are kept, or practicing what to do if the family becomes separated.
The CDC offers preparedness guidance specifically for families with children, including involving children in preparing emergency supplies and talking with them about what to expect.
Which kids survival kit fits your child?
- Junior ReadyPack. The fuller option for a school-age child who can comfortably manage a larger backpack. It includes emergency food and water, lighting, a whistle, children's first aid supplies, and kid-friendly items including a stuffed bear, crayons, and activities.
- Mini Mate. Under 3 pounds and intentionally compact. A lightweight option for younger children or for keeping with the family's emergency supplies, in a stroller, or at a grandparent's house.
Size and weight matter. Choose based on what your child can comfortably manage and how you expect the kit to be used. A younger child doesn't need to carry their own supplies for the kit to be useful.
If you're preparing the whole household at once, the Complete Family + Kids Bundle pairs a family emergency kit with a child's own kit.
How do you get a child ready without frightening them?
Keep it practical and age appropriate.
Let them choose a comfort item. Show them where the emergency supplies are kept. Teach them how and when to use a whistle. Help them learn important names and phone numbers when they're old enough, and practice what to do if you become separated.
The goal isn't to make a child responsible for the emergency. It's to make the family plan familiar before anything happens.
What to add yourself
- Any medications your child needs, along with written dosing instructions.
- An emergency contact card with parent or caregiver contacts, important medical information, allergies, and another trusted contact if appropriate.
- A recent family photo that can help with identification if you become separated.
- A comfort item they choose, such as a small stuffed animal, toy, book, or other familiar item.
