Hurricane Irma: How to prepare for the storm with your children

Hurricanes are often scary for children, but to make the experience less traumatic, the key is getting them involved with preparation and encouraging a dialog.

Before Hurricane Irma, parents should talk to their children about their feelings and concerns. Officials suggest answering all the children's questions while being calm and reassuring.

>> Get the latest Hurricane Irma coverage on Social Media

• On Twitter: @kmillerweather
• On Facebook: Hurricane Irma: Preparing for the storm

Here are other ways to prepare with your children:

1. Work together to build an emergency kit.
2. Sit down as a family and discuss a plan.
3. Role-play what to do during a disaster.
4. Shut off the TV — news coverage can create confusion and anxiety.

>> Hurricane Prep List: Print off this list of supplies and get to the store

There are also two games that your kids can play to prepare and educate them about disaster.

Read more about preparing, planning and taking action here.

Cox Media Group