Preparing for or experiencing a hurricane, thunderstorm, or other severe weather event can bring up all kinds of feelings for children. They may feel scared, confused, curious, or worried about what will happen next. Even when children don’t express their concerns directly, they may be listening to conversations around them and trying to make sense of what’s happening.
As parents and caregivers, we can help children navigate these big feelings by creating opportunities to talk, ask questions, and learn about severe weather in developmentally appropriate ways. One way we love to do this is through books and educational media that help children understand what’s happening and feel more prepared. This morning, my meteorologist hubby and Zora watched an episode of Weather Hunters on PBS KIDS, which inspired me to share some of our favorite educational media resources for helping children process severe weather.
When Something Scary Happens
Did you know that PBS KIDS has an entire collection of videos and resources called When Something Scary Happens? This collection helps children process the fear, worries, and other big feelings that can accompany storms, emergencies, and difficult news events. Educational media can be a helpful starting point for conversations about severe weather. Through familiar characters and relatable situations, children can explore what it means to prepare for a storm, what might happen during severe weather, and how communities work together afterward.
Here are five episodes to add to your family’s watchlist!
Keep the Conversation Going
After watching, here are sample questions to keep the conversation going:
- What are some things we can do to prepare for a storm?
- How do you think the characters felt when they learned a storm was coming?
- How did the community work together after the storm?
- What are some ways we can help our family or neighbors after severe weather?
- Why is it important to listen to weather updates and follow safety instructions?
- What supplies might we need if the power goes out?
- Who are the trusted adults we can turn to when we have questions or feel worried about a storm?
Stories and educational media give children a way to explore challenging topics at a comfortable pace. You might read a book about weather, watch a related PBS KIDS episode, or invite your child to draw a picture of what helps them feel safe during a storm. Let your child guide the conversation. Some children will want to ask lots of questions, while others may prefer to watch quietly or return to the topic later.
Some children may be fascinated by thunder, lightning, and hurricanes, while others may find these topics frightening. Children with disabilities or who are neurodivergent may benefit from additional preparation, visual supports, predictable explanations, or repeated opportunities to process what is happening.
Explore More PBS KIDS Resources
The When Something Scary Happens collection offers families a starting point for finding educational media to help children navigate challenging experiences. Explore the collection and look for resources that fit your child’s questions and needs.
Visit the PBS KIDS website to explore educational videos and resources for children and families.
Leave a Reply