When sheltering in confined spaces with children, maintaining mental and emotional well-being is critical. Establish routines and activities to prevent stress and conflict. Communicate openly with children about the situation using age-appropriate language to build trust and cooperation.

Entertainment Options

  • Card Games: Use standard decks for games like Solitaire, Speed, Uno, and War. Modify rules to create new challenges or family favorites. For instance, in Uno, players can earn extra points by matching colors instead of numbers.
  • Pen & Paper Games: Play Hangman, Tic-Tac-Toe, MadLibs, or Charades with minimal supplies. Use index cards for Pictionary or trivia. For example, create a trivia game where each card has a question about a family member’s favorite book or movie.
  • No-Material Games: Engage in ‘Guess Who,’ ‘Alphabet Challenge,’ or ‘I Spy’ to stimulate thinking without resources. ‘Alphabet Challenge’ can involve listing items in the shelter starting with each letter of the alphabet.
  • Whiteboards: Use for drawing, writing, math practice, or playing silent games. Encourage creativity and storytelling. For instance, have each family member draw a scene from a favorite book and then narrate the story.
  • Books: Select read-aloud favorites and encourage storytelling, role-playing, or drawing scenes from stories. For example, read a chapter of a book each night and have children draw their favorite part of the story.

Skill Development

  • Sewing/Needlework: Teach basic sewing or knitting with scrap fabric, needles, and repurposed materials like pill bottles. For instance, make a simple tote bag from an old t-shirt or create a small pillow from fabric scraps.
  • Family Journal: Document experiences through writing, drawings, or reflections to preserve memories and foster bonding. Each family member can contribute a page every week, detailing their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

Distractions & Morale Boosters

  • Store glow sticks, bubbles, stickers, and puzzles for special moments or breaks. For example, use glow sticks to create a mini light show or use stickers to decorate a journal.
  • Assign simple tasks like organizing supplies, counting inventory, or managing waste to give children purpose and responsibility. For instance, have children count the number of water bottles left and record it in a journal.

Daily Routines

  • Schedule physical activity breaks with games like jumping jacks, sit-ups, or stretching to prevent stiffness and improve circulation. For example, have a 10-minute stretch session every hour.
  • Maintain hydration and sanitation by ensuring adequate water, waste disposal systems, and hygiene supplies (toilet paper, hand sanitizer, wipes). For instance, set up a schedule for hand washing and ensure everyone has access to hand sanitizer.
  • Provide familiar comfort foods and occasional treats (candy, crackers) to sustain morale and normalcy. For example, have a ‘treat day’ once a week where everyone can enjoy a small treat.

Parental Attitude

  • Model positive behavior and frame the situation as an adventure to inspire resilience. For instance, say, ‘We’re going on an exciting journey together!’ instead of ‘We’re stuck here.’
  • Foster teamwork and cooperation by emphasizing shared goals and problem-solving. For example, have a family meeting to discuss how everyone can contribute to the shelter’s daily tasks.
  • Encourage emotional expression through journaling, art, or open conversations to process stress and build family cohesion. For instance, have a ‘feelings’ circle where everyone shares how they are feeling and why.

Common Mistakes

  • Failing to communicate effectively with children about the situation can lead to misunderstandings and fear.
  • Overlooking the importance of physical activity can result in health issues and decreased morale.
  • Neglecting to provide mental stimulation can lead to boredom and frustration.

Practical Tips

  • Keep a variety of activities and games accessible to keep children engaged and entertained.
  • Encourage children to participate in decision-making processes to give them a sense of control and responsibility.
  • Maintain a positive and hopeful attitude to inspire resilience and cooperation among family members.

By implementing these strategies, families can maintain morale and engagement in survival shelters, ensuring a more positive and cohesive experience.

[KNOWLEDGE CONNECTIONS]
CLOSEST CONNECTIONS