[AlaskanFamily]

My family is new to prepping, & a bit overwhelmed. Hubby & I have 2 children under age 2. What are some things we need to prep, for our kids, in case the SHTF in the next 5 yrs? We live in Anchorage, & due to population, we think it would be best to leave the city, BUT are unsure if that would be wise with small children.

 

[miho]

I too have children,my youngest is six.i would say make sure you have enough water,have food and reliable transportation.in my case I have travel games for the kids you can get them at dollar tree.some sweets might help ,i dehydrate fruit and that what I mean by sweets.if you feel you and your family are in danger leave,dont wait till youre stuck and in ground zero.hope this help.

 

[5Runner]

Kids here too, three of them.

My best suggestion for prep with kids...

...take them on camping trips, road trips, hiking trips, etc. I have found (inadvertently) that having spent the last 4 years taking my kids on dozens and dozens of trips and collecting the gear and knowledge to do so...was in fact...prepping. I've got a great BOV that I didn't even know was one until recently. Now that I have begun formally prepping, I am finding how valuable that experience has been. It has given me a good understanding of what minimal supplies are necessary, and it has given my kids an understanding for it as well. They are easily disconnected from the joys of modern society and are comfortable with simplicity. They have also learned various outdoor skills and continue to each trip.

If you are planning to leave the City with the SHTF. Then start practicing now. Leave the City at least once every month and go play in nature. Do it in all the seasons, so you have gear for all seasons and experience in all seasons. Even if you aren't up for camping in winter, take a minimally-packed road trip to hotel in some small mountain town and spend the day hiking. You'll love every minute of that prepping with those kids of yours.

We started camping and heavy mountain play when my kids were 2, 4, and 6. It was just for fun back then...still is now... However now I see the alternate value to it all more clearly. I also see kids that are more prepared for leaving home...and everything it contains.

 

[yzingerr]

I too have 3 kids under the age of 3.
Prep for them as if you were going on a trip and had limited room.
Necessities only.
Food, water, diapers, meds, clothes, etc.
I say DONT BRING CRIBS! I know it sounds funny, but a friend of mine has two portable cribs in his bob gear (driving bob of course).
You know your specific terrain better than I do, be prepared for weather and people.

 

[Carp614]

Teach, Model, Pray

The basics are the basics: Shelter, Water, Food, Protection.

Totally agree with 5runner. Teach them how to have fun in the woods.

 

[Watercanlady]

With small children you need things to entertain them, games toys etc. invest in a few cloth diapers they can be reused and take up much less room than packs and packs of disposable. I would try to get out of the city ASAP even if you have to go with the children and your hubby meet up later. Try buying clothes when on clearance for the next few sizes larger for them. Stock up on peanut butter as long as there are no allergies. That is protein for both children and adults.

The camping ideas are great. Even if you just go on nature walks or hikes in the park to start. I would try to stock up on sugar, and kool aid this can be a treat when you have only water. Mac & cheese is a good stock up item also. Spam, canned hams, these can be added in to make meals. Very easy for small children to eat also. I hope you get some good ideas. Good luck.......