The Drill That Scares Me: A Story to Gently Introduce Lockdown Drills (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9798348513375)

I feel it of utmost importance to acknowledge how heartbreaking it is that this book is necessary.

As an educator, explaining lockdown drills to young children year after year never gets easier. Their innocent questions can leave adults at a loss for words-or choked up with emotion. But avoiding the conversation doesn't make it any less real.

This book is a helpful tool and road map to guide you through this difficult topic with elementary school kids of all ages.

Children feel safest when the adults around them are honest while still being age-appropriate. When we shy away from their questions, they sense it. When we pretend something isn't heavy, they feel the weight of what's left unsaid.

This book gently introduces the concept of lockdown drills in a way that removes some of the fear and uncertainty. It offers a thoughtful, comforting approach that helps children understand why these drills happen-without overwhelming them. With warmth and clarity, it creates space for honest conversations, giving kids the reassurance they need to feel safe, prepared, and heard.

Most importantly, this book reminds children that even though we practice for emergencies, the world is still full of kindness and good people. The helpers will always be there.

Recognizing that safety procedures vary, this book includes a page for you to customize with your own lockdown procedure. It's not a one-size-fits-all approach-because every school and community is unique. This personalized touch ensures that children understand what to expect in a way that feels familiar and reassuring.