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Parents' School Closing Survival Kit

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Dec 19, 2008 9:32 am US/Eastern

Parents' School Closing Survival Kit

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) ― Few things can send a child into a fit of joy like those two simple words: "school's closed"; but those same words can leave parents scrambling. With that in mind, we've put together a "survival guide" of sorts -- to help mom and dad cope!

Parents can pull their hair out trying to answer the following questions: Who will watch the kids while I'm at work? Is my son or daughter old enough to be left alone? How will I keep the kids occupied during the day? How will my boss feel about me missing work?

Fortunately, though, some of these worries can be eliminated with some careful planning.

Develop a Plan!

Know your school district's emergency closing policy. Many schools will send emergency closing information home with the students but that doesn't mean your child will show it to you (especially if they're in elementary school). Take a moment to call the school's office and ask.

Have a "missed work" plan. Talk to your boss before an emergency to plan ways to make up any missed work.

Have an emergency child care plan. Most child care facilities will close when the school district cancels school. Try to set up child care beforehand with family and friends. If your child is old enough to stay at home alone set ground rules so that they know what behavior is expected. Have emergency contact numbers for you, friends and family listed for your child.

Home Alone: How Young Is Too Young?
Think your child is mature enough to stay home alone? While there is generally no set age in which kids can handle potential problems that can arise without adult supervision, there are some guidelines that parents should consider before putting a child in that situation.

The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, for instance, recommends that parents discuss what to do in certain situations – like if a stranger knocks on the door or how to answer the phone. Parents should also lay down rules regarding such things as if friends are allowed to come over and computer use.

For more help on this topic, click on the following links:

The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry

National Child Care Information Center Guidelines (US Department of Health and Human Services)

Keeping Kids Occupied:

One big challenge that snow days can present is keeping kids from uttering that oh-so-familiar phrase: "I'm bored!"

While video games and cartoons will keep kids occupied, having some extra crafts, games and other activities planned can help create fond memories for everyone.

We've found some unique ideas – from making ice cream out of snow to creating marshmallow sculptures -- that could keep your youngsters occupied and make for a safe and fun snow day!

Make A Snowman.. From Rice Crispies!

Craft Snow Flakes From Tortillas

 Make Ice Cream from Snow

Create Marshmallow sculptures

Create Paper Snowflakes

 How to Make a Paper Bag Puppet

Have More Great Ways to Spend a Snow Day?
Email Your Snow Day Suggestions to Webteam@KDKA.com! We may feature your idea online – and on KDKA-TV!

(© MMVI, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.