Kool Kids Helensvale prepares children for summer storm season

With exposure to severe weather events such as summer storms known to have a significant  impact on children’s physical, mental and learning development, families, carers and educators  are encouraged to prepare early for the upcoming storm season.  

The team at Kool Kids Helensvale are taking proactive steps by involving children in age-appropriate storm-readiness conversations, helping build confidence and reliance before severe weather hits.  

Kool Kids Helensvale Early Childhood Teacher Amanda Oborn, who is leading the program, said it’s crucial to give children an active role in preparedness.  

“When we involve children by engaging them in the simple, practical tasks of readiness, we give them confidence, agency and reassurance,” she said. 

“It transforms something that could be frightening into something they understand and can actively prepare for.” 

The children in the centre have been engaging in discussions about what to do before and during a storm event. 

“We’ve talked about cleaning up the yard and making sure toys aren’t left out where they can become dangerous in high winds,” she shared. 

“The children were also very concerned about losing power, so we brainstormed what they could do if the power goes out, there were some great suggestions including using torches and candles, and taking steps as a storm approaches to ensure phones are fully charged.”  

The children are so invested in their learning, that Amanda worked with the children to create a “Storm Safety” book for them to take home and share with their families. 

“The book brings all our conversations together in a simple resource that families can read and discuss at home,” she said.  

“It encourages children to share their learning and helps families build their own storm-ready plans.” 

G8 Education Chief Education and Learning Officer Ali Evans said empowering children with knowledge is one of the most effective ways to reduce fear and anxiety during extreme weather events.  

“Children cope better with extreme weather when they are prepared, calm, and know what to expect,” she said.  

“By teaching storm-readiness in a supportive environment, centres like Kool Kids Helensvale are giving children practical skills that help them feel safe; this is exactly the kind of learning that stays with them for life.”  

Kool Kids Helensvale will continue storm-readiness activities throughout summer, and encourage families to revisit home safety plans together.  

For further resources, G8 Education recommends Birdie’s Tree, prepared by Queensland Health to support children and families.