As parents, you want to keep your kids as safe as possible from all sorts of danger. While traditionally this has meant holding their hands when they cross the street and teaching them not to talk to strangers, the threat of a zombie apocalypse is taking child safety to a whole new level.
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways that prepper parents can outfit their kiddos and supply even the smallest child with age-appropriate hunting gear. Whether you have preschoolers or teenagers at home, it’s important to help prepare them for the worst and make sure they have tools and clothing they can use in the event that the zombies are moving into your neighborhood.
Toddlers: Outfit ‘Em in Camo
While very young children probably won’t be able to use a lot of traditional hunting gear to fend-off zombies, they can certainly be dressed in outfits that will help them to blend into their surroundings. For example, Cabela’s features camouflage bib overalls that are ideal for when they are outside. In addition to keeping your littlest prepper safe, the overalls are built with toddlers in mind. They are durable, and they can handle the constant movement little ones are known for.
Children: Teach ‘Em About Tools
Elementary school kids should also be outfitted in camo clothing that will prevent zombies from spotting them when they are outside. Bass Pro sells a hoodie for youth that is great for colder days. Since kids of this age can usually handle a bit more in terms of zombie fighting responsibility, you might consider buying them their first Swiss Army Knife that they can use to protect themselves. In addition, consider picking up a copy of the Boy Scouts handbook and read through it with your child. The manual is chock full of excellent survival tips and skills that you can practice with your young child before the zombies attack. From starting a fire without matches to learning how to build an emergency shelter, outfitting your child with knowledge is just as important as making sure they have the right tools and clothing.
Preteens: Throw ‘Em Some Responsibility
For kids who are around 11 or 12 years of age, they can probably be trusted with some more potentially dangerous equipment and hunting gear. If you feel your pre-teen is ready for more responsibility, take some time now while the neighborhood is safe and purchase them the clothing and accessories they’ll need when doomsday arrives. For example, you can tell them that since they are getting older and are showing signs of being responsible, you want to teach them how to properly gear-up for survival. In addition to their camo outfits to prevent zombies from spotting them, buy them additional accessories like all-purpose footwear and their very own pair of sunglasses that will help them to see more clearly on bright and sunny zombie filled days. Since pre-teens can be a little hard on their equipment at times, consider purchasing extra replacement lenses for their Oakley’s from a reputable company like Revant Optics.
Teens: Give ‘Em Some Serious Gear
If you have teens in the home, chances are good you can outfit them with some more serious and deadly zombie-fighting weapons. U.S. Cavalry features a handy list of basic hunting gear and equipment that will help to fight zombies. Before the apocalypse happens, take the time to order your intrepid teen some of this equipment, and go over how to use it ahead of time. For example, your teen can carry a Gerber Gator Machete to help protect him or herself from a zombie invasion, and military waterproof binoculars with an internal rangefinder will allow your responsible teen to keep watch with you, and be on the lookout for zombies or other apocalyptic marauders.
