After major hurricanes like Helene and Milton, it can feel like your life has been tossed around like a plastic beach shovel in a tidal wave. If you’re reading this, chances are you and your little ones have been through some pretty intense experiences, and now it’s time to find the calm after the storm (literally). So let’s talk about helping those adorable toddlers of yours bounce back, one routine and one playtime at a time.

1. Keeping It Routine (Because Chaos + Toddlers = Wild West)

One of the best ways to help your toddler find their way back to stability is by holding onto some form of routine, even if it’s not the perfectly organized one you had pre-hurricane. It doesn’t have to be Pinterest-perfect — just aim to create some predictable elements in their day. A basic morning routine, regular meal times, and a consistent bedtime ritual can work wonders.

Pro tip: When you’re putting together a “new normal” routine, don’t stress about making it perfect. Focus on consistency rather than complexity — it’s about being more “routine-ish” than “routine-police.” For instance, brushing teeth, saying goodnight to their favorite stuffed animals, and reading a bedtime story will feel soothing and familiar.

Joke alert: You could call this approach the “Stormtrooper Routine” — because it brings a bit of order to the galaxy (even if it’s not perfect).

2. Choices Without Control (Toddlers Need Options, Not Total Power)

We know it might seem tempting to let your toddler pick their own adventure right now (“Do you want to wear pajamas all day? Go for it!”), but structure is still key. Toddlers crave boundaries even if they sometimes make it seem like they want to rule the world (or at least your living room). Providing options within limits helps them feel a sense of control without actually handing them the steering wheel.

Try giving your toddler choices like:

• Which snack to eat (goldfish or crackers?)
• What toy to play with (blocks or cars?)
• Which song to listen to (Baby Shark or… sigh, Baby Shark)

Remember, they’re co-regulating with you — meaning they’re looking to you for cues on how to feel safe and secure. The calmer and more collected you appear (even if you’re a little storm-weathered yourself), the more they’ll relax.

Quick chuckle: Think of yourself as the CEO of “Toddler Inc.” They get to weigh in on decisions, but you’re still the one in charge of overall management.

3. Providing Calming Activities (Because Who Doesn’t Need a Chill Break?)

After a big event like a hurricane, our nervous systems are on high alert — yes, even toddlers have “mini-nervous systems” working hard in the background. Incorporating calming activities can make a huge difference in helping them (and you!) find a new baseline. Here are some ideas that are fun and soothe their little souls:

• Movement: Let them move their bodies with fun activities like yoga, dancing to music, or just having a “wiggle session.” Toddlers love getting their wiggles out and can feel calm and regulated when they move. If you’ve got stairs, supervised climbing can be surprisingly therapeutic!
• Sensory activities: Set up a sensory bin with water, sand, or rice. Or if that’s too messy, take a soft blanket and let them “swim” in it while they pretend they’re in the ocean — minus the storms, of course!
• Music: Music can be an instant mood-lifter! Try singing simple songs or playing soothing tunes. A bit of background music during playtime or mealtimes can create a comforting atmosphere.

Playful note: Singing out loud is encouraged, especially if you don’t have the voice of a Grammy-winning artist. In fact, they’ll probably think it’s hilarious!

4. Play, Play, Play — Because Play Isn’t Just for Playgrounds

When you’re feeling like life is one long game of Tetris and you’re the one holding all the oddly shaped pieces, play might seem like the last thing you have time for. But play is actually essential for your toddler’s emotional recovery (and your sanity!). When we play, our bodies naturally regulate stress, which is especially important when it feels like the world has turned upside down. Play also helps kids make sense of what they’ve been through.

During a game of “Let’s Be a Hurricane!” (where they get to be the wind and you get to be the building), they’re actually processing the experience. The power of play helps kids feel safe enough to express fears or worries they may not even have words for.

Joke Break: Play is serious business for toddlers. We’re talking about the CEO of “Toddler Inc.” clocking in for a few hours of “hard play.”

5. Remember: Healing Takes Time

As much as we wish we could skip the hard parts and just fast-forward to the happy ending, resilience isn’t built overnight. Toddlers are learning to navigate big feelings for the first time, and it’s totally okay if they’re feeling extra sensitive or clingy. In the meantime, you’re helping them rebuild their sense of normalcy, one giggle and snack time at a time.

Big picture: Give yourself a pat on the back (or a treat) every once in a while. You’re doing something incredible, and with each small, steady step, both you and your child will begin to feel more like yourselves again.

Final Thought

Building resilience in toddlers post-hurricane is a lot like trying to teach a fish to climb a tree — it seems impossible at first, but with patience and a bit of creativity, you’ll see incredible things happen. Many families are going through the same challenges, and it’s okay to ask for support if you need it.  When things get tough, remember: you don’t have to do this alone. We’re here to help you and your little one navigate this journey. Whether it’s through music therapy, play, or just a safe, supportive environment, Unlimited Pediatric Therapy is here to help you both regain that sense of “normal.” 

So keep calm, carry on (with playtime), and know that brighter days are on the horizon.