When we think about earthquake safety, our homes often come first. But have you considered the safety of the nursery or kindergarten your child attends? These facilities are where children spend a significant part of their day, and ensuring their preparedness is just as critical as securing your own home.

Why Earthquake Preparedness in Nurseries and Kindergartens Matters

Earthquakes strike without warning, and quick, organized responses can save lives. Nurseries and kindergartens are unique environments where many young children gather, often without their parents present. If these facilities lack proper safety measures, the risk of injury or chaos during an earthquake increases dramatically.
Think of a nursery’s safety plan as an extension of your home’s preparedness. Parents should actively confirm and support these measures.

Why Children Are Especially Vulnerable During Earthquakes

Children are physically and emotionally more vulnerable than adults in disaster situations:

• ・Limited Physical Ability: Young children cannot move quickly or protect themselves effectively.
• ・Emotional Sensitivity: Sudden shaking and loud noises can cause panic and fear.
• ・High Dependence on Adults: Without clear guidance and assistance, children cannot make safe decisions.

Because of these factors, nurseries must prioritize secure environments, clear evacuation routes, and regular drills to ensure safety.

What Parents Can Do to Support Earthquake Safety

Parents play a vital role in reinforcing preparedness. Here are practical steps you can take:

• 1. Ask About the Facility’s Disaster Plan: Does the nursery have a documented evacuation plan and designated safe zones?
• 2. Check the Frequency of Drills: Are children regularly practicing earthquake drills?
• 3. Confirm Emergency Supplies: Is there enough water, food, first-aid kits, and emergency toilets for all children?
• 4. Understand Communication Protocols: How will the nursery contact parents during an emergency?

Building Strong Coordination Between Home and School

Preparedness works best when families and facilities collaborate.

• ・Share your child’s medical information and emergency contacts with the nursery.
• ・Keep a small emergency kit in your child’s bag (e.g., snacks, comfort items).
• ・Participate in parent meetings about disaster preparedness and offer support for drills or supply checks.

• □ Discuss the importance of earthquake preparedness for nurseries and kindergartens.

• □ Explain the vulnerability of children during earthquakes.

Quick Action Checklist for Parents

• ✅ Confirm the nursery’s earthquake safety plan.
• ✅ Verify emergency contact procedures.
• ✅ Ask about furniture anchoring and building safety.
• ✅ Ensure your child knows basic safety actions like “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.
• ✅ Prepare a family reunification plan after an earthquake.

Earthquake preparedness is not just the responsibility of the nursery—it’s a shared effort between the facility and families. By working together, we can create a safer environment for our children when disaster strikes.