Just in Case Kit (JICK)

Just like the Earthquake kits we send to school with our children every year, this kit will likely never be used. But just like those earthquake kits, it's always good to be prepared.

You child will want to know what this is all about. Explain what the kit is for in terms that they can understand without scaring them. You may even want to let them make a Just-in-Case Kit for you. Make it fun!

What you'll need:
- A large storage zipper lock bag
- A current photo, preferably a head and shoulder shot (like the type they have taken in school)
- A piece of paper
- A few strands of hair (from the root)
- A treat (optional, good idea for younger kids)

Step 1. Write the following info on the piece of paper:
· The date
· Child's full name
· Nicknames
· Child's description, hair and eye colour, height, anything unique such as birthmarks, scars etc., habits such as biting nails, and special identifiers like, pierced ears, glasses, braces, hearing aids, etc..
· Child's school name, address, phone number and teacher's name.
· Child's friend's names, addresses and phone numbers.
· Doctor's and Dentist's name and address.
· Grandparent and Parent names, addresses and phone numbers, include work info and any other emergency contact info.

This info would be used if your child were missing. This is an incredibly horrible time for parents. Even the easiest questions can tough to answer under such circumstances. Having all of the info prepared could save valuable time!

Step 2. Take a few srands of your child's hair from the root. Sounds silly but this can prove to be even more valuable than finger prints as it would be used for it's DNA.

Step 3. Take a current photo. We use an instant camera and take a few photos. You can even put a silly picture in the bag to take a bit of the seriousness out of this "activity". It would also prove comforting to you or make you smile when it's time to update your kit! Make sure to let your child take your photo!

Step 4. Take all of the items and place them in a zipper lock bag. Make sure to put a treat in the bag so when it's time to renew your kit your child will have that to look forward to!

Step 5. Put your JICK in a safe place (that you won't forget) and mark your calendar to update it in 6 months.

Step 6. Share this with all of your friends and neighbors that have kids and your child's schoolteachers!

Download the JICK (Just-in-case-Kit) PDF