Head Start and other early childhood programs play an important role in response and recovery efforts after a disaster or emergency. Providing stability and sharing information about resources and agencies that can assist families is critical in the days and weeks after the event. Explore and share materials around social and emotional supports for children and adults. Review disaster preparedness, response, and recovery resources for families and programs.

Emergency Preparedness Tip Sheets

Use these tip sheets with Head Start and Early Head Start families and staff affected by a crisis or tragic event. Learn to focus on children's responses to these events, as well as ways to help them cope.

• Children's Responses to Crises and Tragic Events
• Helping Your Child Cope After a Disaster

Emergency Preparedness in Head Start and Early Childhood Settings Webinar
Learn how to plan and prepare for emergencies in Head Start, Early Head Start, and child care programs. Find strategies staff can use to help children and families prepare at home.

Head Start Emergency Preparedness Manual: 2015 Edition
This manual provides programs with the latest tools and resources to guide their planning process. Use it to support children, families, and communities before, during, and after an emergency. An emergency may be a catastrophic natural event, like a hurricane, flood, or wildfire, or a man-made disaster, such as a shooting. No matter the crisis, Head Start programs need to be ready with impact, relief, and recovery plans. Note: This resource is under review.

Additional Resources

• Head Start Emergency Preparedness Manual: 2015 Edition – Responding to Crises and Tragic Events:
  • Information and Handouts
  • Planning, Reviewing, and Practicing Your Program's Emergency Preparedness
• Rebuilding or Relocating Your Child Care Facility? Disaster Assistance Might be Available for You!
• Emergency Preparedness Resources for Child Care Programs

Last Updated: January 26, 2018