Sensory Safe Evacuation: Preparing for Emergencies with Kids' Sensory Needs in Mind

Curious if OT could help your child's struggles?  Download Why Choose OT to find out!  --- Today's episode is all about preparing for emergencies - whether it's hurricanes, wildfires, floods, or any other unexpected events. We'll be sharing practical packing lists and planning strategies that can truly make a difference when disaster strikes. We'll discuss the importance of planning on calm days and how these strategies can even be useful for vacations. I'll also introduce a unique fire-safety plan required for homeschooling families in Pennsylvania, which includes activities like visiting a firehouse and practicing ladder escapes. A key focus of this episode is using a sensory lens in emergency planning. We'll explore how to consider sensory sensitivities and create a sensory safe evacuation planner tailored for your family. And good news – there's a no-cost planner available to guide you through your evacuation process. In this episode you'll hear about: Planner designed to empower individuals for different obstacles during emergencies Importance of planning on calm days Strategies can also be useful for vacations Fire-safety plan required in Pennsylvania for homeschooling Sensory Considerations in Planning Incorporating a sensory lens when planning Impact of sensory sensitivities during emergencies Development of the Brain Executive Program Explains sensory modulation and sensory processing challenges to kids Book: "How to be a Brain Executive and Get Sensory Sharp" Planning with Sensory Sensitivities in Mind Katie's work in translating sensory processing science to everyday life Creation of a sensory-safe evacuation planner Katie's emphasis on understanding sensory characteristics Seeking help from occupational therapists Practical Implementation Suggestions Sarah's insights and suggestions for observing children's sensory needs Addressing sensory challenges during evacuation Mitigating stress through early planning Planning and Training for Emergencies Importance of repetitive training and preparation Planning for children with motor planning challenges Stressing the significance of safety and its role in seeking OT services Need for addressing anxiety or difficulties discussing emergencies with children Benefit of a child-oriented version of the emergency preparedness planner Links and Resources From Today's Show Why Should I Seek Occupational Therapy? Board Game Suggestions to Teach Executive Functioning Executive Functioning Focus Group Episode 10: Streamlining Your Space: Organizing for Better Executive Functioning Emergency Kit Checklist for Families with Children and Youth with Special Healthcare Needs Emergency Preparedness for Families with Special Needs Children Preparedness Tips for Sensory-Intense Environments: How to Help Your Children