IMO, the kids should have their own bags, which should contain things they know how to use: flashlight, lightstick, water bottle, whistle, granola bars, extra socks, hat, jacket, toy or game, poncho, waterproof package containing medical info (if appl.) & family/friend addresses & phone numbers.

Like it or not, kids do get separated from their parents. It would be heartbreaking for your family to survive the flood (etc) and then have one of the kids wander off and die of hypothermia.

And make sure they know the why & how to use everything they carry.

Sue