When the Sky Turns Dark, Stay Calm for Our Kids

When severe weather strikes, fear is natural. This weekend’s EF-4 tornado in Laurel County has left a trail of devastation—and not just in the physical sense. The emotional impact is just as real. Social media was flooded with posts from adults admitting how scared they were, and understandably so. But it also reminded me of something important: in moments like this, our children are watching us.

They hear the sirens, they feel the tension, and they notice our reactions. If we panic, they will too. If we speak in fear, they absorb that fear. And right now, after seeing what happened to our neighbors just miles away, many of our kids are scared—and traumatized.

That’s why it’s important to remain calm, even when we don’t feel it inside. We’re not being dishonest or dismissive. We’re being strong—for them.

Children need reassurance, not alarm. When the warnings go off, they look to the adults in their lives for guidance. We can’t control tornadoes, but we can control the environment in our homes, classrooms, and communities during these moments of uncertainty.

Let’s remember to use words of comfort, take proactive safety steps without panic, and be present in the moment with them. Let them ask questions, feel heard, and, most importantly, feel safe.

We live in a time when weather patterns are more unpredictable and storms feel more intense. As adults, it’s okay to be anxious. But in front of our children, let’s choose calm. Let’s teach them preparedness, resilience, and faith over fear.

Our neighbors in Laurel County need our prayers and support. And our children need our strength.

Because when the sky turns dark, it’s the light we show in our demeanor that makes all the difference.