Wildfires are an unsettling reality for many Los Angeles families, and as a nanny, you play an essential role in keeping children safe, calm, and supported. Young children may not fully understand what’s happening, but they often absorb the emotions of those around them. Your steady, reassuring presence can help them navigate this experience in a way that feels safe and manageable.

This guide provides practical tips to ensure both physical safety and emotional well-being for the children in your care during wildfire season.

Create a Sense of Safety Through Reassurance

Children need to feel secure, and clear, age-appropriate explanations can help them process what’s happening.

Keep Explanations Simple:

Compare the situation to something they can understand. For example:
“Sometimes the weather brings rain or wind, and right now, there’s a big fire. Helpers like firefighters are working hard to keep it from spreading and to make sure everyone stays safe.”

Use Repetition for Reassurance:

Repeat comforting phrases like, “We are safe here. The helpers are making sure we’re okay.” Repetition can help young children feel grounded.

Acknowledge Their Feelings:

If they express fear or sadness, let them know it’s okay:
“It’s normal to feel scared when we don’t understand everything, but I’m here to take care of you.”

Be Honest, But Optimistic:

For children who notice or ask about losses, keep your responses truthful but hopeful:
“Yes, the fire burned some houses and trees, but the important thing is that we’re safe, and we’ll figure out what’s next together.”

Reduce Anxiety by Managing the Environment

Children are highly sensitive to the atmosphere around them. Small changes can make a big difference.

Limit Exposure to the News:

Avoid playing news coverage where children can see or hear it. Repeated images of fires or destruction can increase anxiety.

Be Mindful of Conversations:

Keep discussions about the fire or evacuation plans private. Children may misunderstand adult conversations and become unnecessarily worried.

Provide Calm Activities:

Offer activities that encourage focus and relaxation, such as coloring, building puzzles, or reading favorite books together.

Make the Indoor Space Feel Safe and Inviting

A cozy, secure environment can help children feel more at ease during stressful times.

Build Small, Cozy Spaces:

Create a play fort or a designated “safe spot” with pillows, blankets, and their favorite stuffed animals. These enclosed spaces can give children a sense of control and security.

Encourage Creative Play:

Provide art supplies for drawing, painting, or crafting. Artistic activities give children an outlet for processing their emotions in a way they can control.

Play Familiar Media:

Show comforting home videos or favorite TV shows. Familiar visuals and sounds can provide a welcome distraction from outside events.

Protect Physical Health Inside and Out

Wildfire smoke can be harmful, especially for children with developing lungs.

Monitor Air Quality:

Check the Air Quality Index (AQI) daily using apps like AirNow or local weather services. If the AQI is above 150, keep children indoors.

Seal Off the Home:

Close all windows and doors and block drafts with towels or weather strips to prevent smoke from entering.

Use Air Purifiers:

If available, run a HEPA air purifier to clean the indoor air. Suggest to the family that investing in one could be helpful during wildfire season.

Avoid Outdoor Activities:

If you must go outside, wear a properly fitted N95 mask to protect against harmful particles. Cloth masks are not effective for smoke.

Prepare for the Possibility of Evacuation

Evacuation orders can come quickly, and being prepared ensures you’re ready to act.

Know the Family’s Plan:

Speak with your employers to understand their evacuation plan, including:

• Designated meeting points.

• Emergency contacts.

• What to do if parents are not home when evacuation orders come.

Pack an Emergency Bag:

Prepare a bag with essentials such as:

• Water and snacks.

• Changes of clothes and diapers for younger children.

• Comfort items like a favorite toy or blanket.

• A phone charger and first aid kit.

Stay Calm During Evacuation:

Use a soothing tone and provide reassurance, even if you’re feeling anxious. Simple phrases like, “We’re going to a safe place now,” can help children stay calm.

Acknowledge the Helpers

Children often notice the sights and sounds of emergency response vehicles. Use these as opportunities to teach and reassure them.

•  “The firefighters are driving their trucks to spray water on the fire.”

•  “The helicopters are carrying water to stop the fire from spreading.”

Focusing on the helpers not only reassures children but also teaches them about the importance of community support during crises.

Take Care of Yourself, Too

Your well-being is just as important as the care you provide to others.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Well:

Drink plenty of water and eat balanced meals to maintain your energy.

Take Mental Breaks:

Step outside (if safe) for a breath of fresh air or take a moment for deep breathing exercises.

Seek Support:

If you feel overwhelmed, talk to the family or reach out to friends or colleagues.

Support Recovery After the Fire

Once the danger has passed, children may need help processing their emotions and returning to normal routines.

Talk About Their Experience:

Encourage them to express what they felt or saw through words, drawings, or play. Acknowledge their feelings and validate their experiences.

Re-establish Routines:

Return to familiar schedules for meals, naps, and activities as soon as possible. Consistency helps children feel secure.

Be Patient:

Children may exhibit changes in behavior, such as clinginess or difficulty sleeping. Offer extra comfort and time to adjust.

Final Thoughts: Your Role as a Nanny

During challenging times like wildfire season, your role extends far beyond caregiving. You are a source of comfort, safety, and stability for the children and families you serve. By staying calm, prepared, and attuned to the emotional needs of the children, you can help them navigate this experience with resilience and trust.

Together, we can weather these challenges and look forward to brighter days ahead.