It seems like every time we turn on the news, we hear about another natural catastrophe. Living in South Florida, I’ve seen firsthand the devastation wrought by hurricanes. Growing up in the Midwest, I remember fierce ice storms and hiding out in the basement under the threat of a looming tornado. So, how do we teach children to be prepared for potential events such as these without terrifying them?One way to start the discussion is with a children’s book. Flood, by Alvaro F. Villa is a gorgeously illustrated book -- with absolutely no words -- about a family’s experience when floodwaters encroach on their home. As the storm rolls in, the family builds a wall of sandbags around their home to try to keep the water away. Soon, they realize they must evacuate their home. When they return, they find the damage wrought by the storm. Family and friends band together to repair the house and make it a “home” once again.
Children learn that although scary storms and natural disasters may arrive, this is a time for their family to seek safety and comfort in each other. When they pull together, they can get through what happens and then rebuild their lives. Reading along with a grown-up, kids can talk about their fears and what it means to be a family. Flood is a beautiful book that you won’t soon forget.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book for review. All opinions are 100% my own. This post contains my Amazon affiliate link.
