Howling wind and flashes of lightning can make stormy nights feel a little scary. You can calm children of all ages with comforting reassurance and cozy products to help them relax and sleep through the night. Our parent-approved ideas will help you create a peaceful environment for your child. Try your favorite options on this list — from comforting books to cozy baby hoodies and toddler pajamas. You’ll design a stormy weather routine that works best for your child and family.

Explain Storms in a Kid-Friendly Way

Understanding helps to reduce fear, so teach your child about weather and storms by reading an age-appropriate book. You can even watch a kid-friendly video. Start by grabbing a few books from the library or purchasing some stories for the next stormy evening. Some news stations have guides for kids created by meteorologists, so check their websites for more information.

Share fascinating facts about storms. Tell them that thunder is the sound of clouds bumping together and that the pouring rain helps plants grow. Small children will appreciate that storms can help nourish the Earth with rain, turning an uneasy experience into something more positive.

Offer Your Child Lovies and Comfort Items

Comfort items, like lovies, can give your child more control over their environment during a storm. Ask your child which stuffed animal or blanket they want to take to bed or carry during the bad weather. You can also create a kids’ storm safety kit with a colorful flashlight, cozy quilt and favorite lovey or stuffed creature. Let them keep their favorite items in a nearby soft storage container or basket so your child can reach for what they need for comfort.

Dress Them in Cozy Clothing or Pajamas

The sense of touch is powerful. A soft outfit or plush pair of pajamas will make every child feel more relaxed and cozy. If you like to dress your little one in comfy styles made with bamboo material, pick a pair of pull-on baby boy rompers or a cute and convenient baby girl bodysuit. Your child will also love bamboo pajamas. Seasonless, stretchy zip-up pajamas or two-piece PJs will snuggle their body and help them feel more relaxed and secure. Add comforting details like fuzzy socks or a matching bamboo blanket.

Distract Your Child with Fun Activities

When children are aware of the stormy weather, it can help to shift the focus from the storm outside to something more fun and engaging. Indoor family activities can help drown out the noise outside and distract a restless mind. Read a book aloud, listen to an ebook or tell stories about your childhood.

Other ideas include watching a comforting movie, doing a craft or playing board games. Tell jokes or play charades. Building a fort in your living or family room can help pass the time and make your child feel safer.

Try Breathing Techniques and Positive Imagery

Deep breathing exercises are helpful for calming the body’s stress response to thunder or wind. Kids can learn to breathe deeply just like grownups. Teach your child to inhale for four counts and exhale for six. Next, visualize fun memories or safe, relaxing places.

If you’d like, you can even do a guided visualization exercise together. Sit close together, close your eyes and create a peaceful world. Envision the land, the sky or buildings. Talk about what you would do together in your new space. Create a story using your imagination.

Create a Cozy Storm Ritual

A storm ritual can help kids find peace during unexpected moments. Gather your child’s favorite snacks, books or a journal for a comforting activity they can focus on in bad weather. Whenever there is wind or thunder, return to this activity. One fun storm ritual is to have a family sleepover. Your presence will comfort your child during storms, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing everyone is cared for.

Exercise with Your Child

Light exercises or dance can help your child eliminate nervous energy or release tension. It’s also an excellent way to get moving if storms last for days! Try simple stretches or a short kids’ yoga session. If they have the wiggles, you can create a playlist for a dance party or design an indoor obstacle course.

Create a Peaceful Sleep Environment

Use soft, warm lighting like nightlights or battery-operated candles to counter the darkness. Avoid harsh overhead lights to maintain a cozy ambiance. White noise, rain sounds or soft music can mask the more jarring noises of a storm. Nature sounds or guided meditations are also great options.

Comforting Your Child on Stormy Evenings

Storms can sometimes be frightening for babies and small children who are still learning about their world. Thankfully, your calm voice and positive attitude will help them feel more secure. While babies may need more comfort, toddlers and older children may enjoy toys or distractions. During storms, it’s always a good idea to focus on relaxing and having fun. Music and games can be comforting!

There are many ways you can create a joyful or peaceful ambiance in your home. From cozy kids’ pajamas to soft baby boy and baby girl rompers, even your child’s clothing can make them feel more secure. Offer lovies or a favorite blanket and then distract with fun or soothing activities until bedtime. You’ll combat fear and anxiety while creating peaceful routines for bad weather.

Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.