FEMA for Kids , Lessons in Preparedness and Recovery

Disasters aren't fun, but for children, learning about them can be. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)has a website called FEMA for Kids that is filled with interesting and fun things to do. Kids can enjoy stories, play games, do puzzles, watch videos or go through mazes by going to www.fema.gov and clicking on FEMA for Kids. Along with the fun is a lot of good information that helps children and their families be better prepared in the event of a disaster.

On the FEMA for Kids website you will find:

• How to become a Disaster Action Kid and get your very own certificate
• Herman the Spokes crab, in search of a disaster proof shell.
• Julia and Robbie, who teach kids how to be prepared and how to avoid danger,
• Real stories from children who were affected by disaster.
• A place where children can tell their own story.

The website explains that disasters come in many different forms: a hurricane, which you can prepare for, plus earthquakes and tornadoes, which come on suddenly and are a lot harder to prepare for.

FEMA for Kids is parent and teacher friendly; it offers safety tips and curriculum that can be used both in the classroom and at home. It also includes material for the three primary learning styles -- audio, visual and kinesthetic (hands-on).

The website provides resources on preparing and recovering from a disaster. The more kids know the less threatened they may feel if a disaster happens.

FEMA prepares the nation for all hazards and manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, trains first responders, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.