During lockdown and stay safe procedures, follow the steps in your disaster preparedness plan and:
- Lock or barricade doors, turn off lights, close windows and shades, and keep children out of sight and as quiet as possible in the safest place for children in each classroom or family child care home. Call your local emergency response system (usually 911).
- Lower distress by keeping young children’s development in mind:
- Use developmentally appropriate language with children when describing what you are doing.
- Assure children that you are there to keep them safe and that it’s OK to be scared.
- Use the materials in the Bee CALM Backpack to help children stay calm.
- Remember, children who have had trauma may need extra support and reassurance.
- Don’t take any supplies with you if an intruder is present and emergency officials advise you to evacuate.
- Wait for an “all clear” message from emergency officials.
