Surviving a power outage As a family & how to keep your sanity
Last week my family and I experienced something that we will never forget. What started out as just a typical spring forecast of rain, quickly escalated into a severe thunderstorm with 90mph winds leaving our town without power for six days.
When the power goes out, everything changes in an instant— No screens, no microwave, no lights, and no heat or AC. For moms (or any guardian), a power outage is more than just an inconvenience; it’s a full-on survival scenario. After experiencing it first hand here are some tips that helped us during this time.
First Things First: Safety and Supplies
As soon as the power cuts, you’ll want to do a quick safety check. Grab your emergency kit (or throw one together on the fly). Flashlights are a must—ideally one per kid to reduce fights or fear. Avoid candles, especially with toddlers or curious little ones running around. Make sure your phones are charged or charging on power banks, and unplug larger electronics to protect them from surges when the power returns.
*Keep the fridge and freezer doors closed to preserve food. If it’s cold outside, layer everyone in warm clothes and gather in one room to conserve heat. If it’s hot, open windows early while you can still catch a breeze. And don’t forget the basics: diapers, wipes, snacks, water bottles, and any medications should be close at hand.
Staying Calm and Collected (Even If You’re Not Feeling It)
Let’s be real: you might be anxious, tired, or overwhelmed. But your kids will take their emotional cues from you. Try to keep your voice upbeat and your tone reassuring, even if it feels forced. Frame the situation as an adventure. Say something like, “It’s like camping, but inside!” That shift in perspective can make a huge difference in how your kids react.
*Give lots of love, answer their questions honestly but calmly, and be extra patient. A little extra snack, a snuggle sesh, or even letting bedtime slide by a bit can all be sanity-saving strategies.
Try to Keep It Fun
The hardest part of a power outage with kids is keeping them entertained without the usual tech. Luckily for us the first 4 days without power was perfect temperature for outside activities. We gardened, went to the park, hung out at our local library and spent time with neighbors and friends. One night we even pulled out the flashlights and we all told spooky stories (including our kids)—they loved it!
*Build a fort in the living room and call it a “camp-in.” Read books aloud with dramatic voices, tell stories by flashlight, or get out the coloring books and stickers. BE CREATIVE. You got this!
Conserve Your Own Energy Too
If possible, take shifts with your spouse/another adult or give the older kids a job to do—like reading to a sibling or being in charge of the flashlights. Try to sneak in a breather when things are calm. Sit down, hydrate, grab a snack for yourself, or text a friend for support if your phone still has battery and you have service. You’re holding a lot together, and you deserve care too.
When the Lights Do Come Back On…it’s tempting to dive straight back into routine. But remember take a moment to check your fridge and freezer—toss anything questionable. Let the kids know how proud you are of how they handled it. And before you forget, restock any supplies you used up so you’re better prepared next time.
Remember, give yourself credit. Whether it lasted two hours or two days, you made it through. You kept your kids safe, comforted, and loved—even in the dark. That’s real parenting power.
