The devastating wildfires that swept through Los Angeles in January 2025 destroyed more than 15,000 buildings in just a few days. Among them were 11 schools and 30 child care centers. As a result, over 700,000 children had their education and daily routines suddenly disrupted.
The fires started on January 7 in Pacific Palisades and Eaton Canyon, near Altadena. Strong winds pushed the flames through neighborhoods, making it one of California’s five worst wildfires ever. While much of the news focused on property damage and loss of life, the challenges faced by children after the disaster received very little attention.
Two experts from the University of Southern California one a disaster epidemiologist, the other a disaster planner say that when a disaster hits your own community, it hits differently. Both were directly affected by school closures and unhealthy air. One of them even had a close friend who lost her home in the fire.
They are now researching how wildfires affect children and what helps them recover faster and live stronger lives.
Schools Are Key to Recovery
Many schools in the area were shut down because of smoke, ash, and structural damage. The Los Angeles Unified School District the second largest in the U.S. was one of them, affecting more than 500,000 students.
Even after schools reopened, parents were nervous about sending their kids back into buildings that may not be completely safe.
Losing access to school affects more than just academics. Children can suffer from stress, anxiety, and emotional struggles. They lose a sense of normalcy and safety.
One mother shared that her daughter missed almost two months of school due to the fires and holidays. Like many others, she just wanted her kids to return to a normal life.
Learning from Past Disasters
After the 2020 Slater Fire in northern California, researchers spoke with children who lost homes and schools. Many of the kids remained hopeful and grateful, but their stories also showed clear gaps in how communities respond to children’s needs after disasters.
One major lesson: Kids recover better when they can quickly return to stable routines like going back to school or joining safe, structured programs.
Helping Kids Handle Stress
Experts say parents should talk openly with their children about disasters instead of avoiding the topic. Let kids ask questions and express their feelings. Watch for signs of stress like anxiety, sleep troubles, or mood changes.
Younger kids may act out or become clingy. Teens may withdraw or take more risks. Helpful ways to support them include sticking to routines, encouraging creative expression, and being a calm role model.
One telling example: a group of 11-year-olds from Altadena who lost their homes created a group chat called “70% homeless” a sad but powerful sign of how they’re trying to cope together.
Community Programs Are a Lifeline
Groups like Project:Camp have stepped in to help. They set up temporary camps in places like Eagle Rock to provide fun, safe care for kids. These programs give children emotional support and give parents time to rebuild their lives.
Such efforts show how cities and counties can plan ahead to include child-focused support in their disaster response plans.
What Families Can Do Now
If you’re still recovering from the wildfires, experts recommend Talking to school counselors, Connecting with community support groups, Reaching out to disaster relief programs. Rebuilding after a wildfire isn’t just about fixing houses and roads. It’s about helping families feel safe again especially children.
Kids are naturally resilient, but they need strong support systems to bounce back. Communities must make schools, child care, and kids’ mental health a top priority when planning for disaster recovery.
Because rebuilding homes is just one step rebuilding hope, safety, and childhood is what really brings healing.