Head Start and other early childhood programs play an important role in response and recovery efforts after a disaster or emergency. In the days and weeks after the event, Head Start staff can provide a critical service by providing stability and sharing information about resources and agencies that can assist families. Pre- and post-emergency planning for the program itself is, of course, also critical.
Tip Sheets for Families
Resources for Programs
A Guide to Building Healthy and Safe Early Childhood Facilities After a Natural Disaster
Program leaders can use this guide when building a new facility or renovating a facility after a natural disaster. This guide will inform conversations about health and safety with the building team.
Health and Safety Recovery Checklist
Use this checklist to gather information after a major disaster. This can inform your recovery efforts so you can make sure that the facility is safe for the return of the children in your care.
Introducing the Emergency Preparedness Manual for Early Childhood Programs
In this webinar, learn how to use the Emergency Preparedness Manual for Early Childhood Programs. Explore how to develop emergency plans to keep children, families, and staff safe if disaster strikes.
Emergency Preparedness Manual for Early Childhood Programs
Programs can use this manual as a guide for their emergency planning process. Find the latest tools and resources 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, early childhood programs need to be ready with impact, relief, and recovery plans.
Preparing for Emergencies with Mental Health in Mind
Emergencies can have serious effects on the mental health of staff, children, and families. Learn concrete strategies to use when preparing for and responding to emergencies from a mental health perspective.
Additional Resources
- Children and Youth Task Force in Disasters: Guidelines for Development
- Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Recovery
- Vehicle Evacuation Drills
- Emergency Preparedness Resources for Child Care Programs
Last Updated: November 22, 2022