If you have minor children, naming a guardian is only part of protecting them.

The other part is making it easy for that guardian to step in—without guessing, scrambling, or trying to piece together your child’s life while everyone is grieving.

That’s why we encourage families to create written “guardian instructions” as part of an organized system (like the Knowledge in Transitions workbook). Think of it as a practical handoff: the day-to-day details, the people to call, and the routines that help your child feel safe.

What guardian instructions are (and what they are not)

Guardian instructions are a plain-language guide for the person caring for your child if you cannot.

·         They are: practical, immediate, and focused on your child’s real life.

·         They are not: a replacement for legal documents (like a will, trust, or formal guardian nomination).

Why this matters (even if you have “great people”)

Even the most loving guardian will not know everything you know.

Clear instructions can:

·         Reduce chaos in the first 48 hours and first few weeks

·         Prevent missed medications, school issues, or custody confusion

·         Help your child keep routines during a scary transition

·         Reduce conflict between well-meaning family members

Easy prompts to include in your Knowledge in Transitions workbook

Use the prompts below as fill-in-the-blank sections. Keep it simple—short answers are fine.

1) The “first calls” list

2) Child snapshot (so a guardian can act quickly)

3) Medical essentials

4) Daily routine (what keeps your child regulated)

5) People who matter to your child

6) School and activities

7) Food, preferences, and “little things”

8) Faith, values, and parenting preferences (keep it respectful and realistic)

9) Practical logistics

10) A note to your child (optional, but powerful)

How to store this safely (without creating risk)

A few best practices:

·         Keep the workbook easy to find for the right people

·         Don’t write passwords directly in the workbook; instead, note where secure access is stored

·         Review and update at least once per year (or after any major life change)

If you want to do this the “right” way

Guardian instructions work best when they’re paired with a legally sound plan and clear nominations.

Purchase a Kidz Kit which includes instructions for the guardians of your minor children. This entire section is also included in Knowledge in Transitions. 

This post is educational and general in nature and is not legal advice.