As parents, we often grapple with unsettling thoughts regarding our children’s safety—concerns that can keep us awake at night. For some, the fears may revolve around choking, drowning, or even the risk of abduction. It’s crucial to address these topics with care and sensitivity.
When my friend Lisa was a single mother to her three-year-old daughter, she created an engaging way to teach her about safety through a role-playing game known as the Emergency Call Game. It unfolded like this:
Lisa: "Hello, this is the emergency operator. What’s your problem?" Three-year-old: "Um, my mommy!" (The humor in her response was always apparent.) Lisa: "Is something wrong with your mommy? Can you tell me her name?" Three-year-old: (She would invent a scenario, like saying, "She fell down.") Lisa: "Okay, can you tell me your address?"
This interactive approach was an effective method for Lisa to ensure her daughter knew vital information, such as her address and phone number, as well as how to seek help in case of an emergency. Many children, and even adults, struggle to recall this information when it truly matters.
Unfortunately, many parents inadvertently instill fear in their children while trying to emphasize safety. Phrases like “Don’t talk to strangers; they might take you!” can create unnecessary anxiety. The reality is that a staggering 90% of harm to children comes from someone they know, with millions of abuse cases reported annually.
Instead, children should be taught to recognize their instincts and what to do when they feel uncomfortable. Respecting their feelings is paramount; if they hesitate to hug a relative, it’s essential to honor that instinct rather than force them into situations they find unsettling.
Beyond concerns like abduction, we must also educate our children on what to do if they become lost. Statistics indicate that 7 out of 10 children will be lost at some point in their lives. A more effective strategy is teaching them to seek help from a mother with children, who is often seen as a safe figure. Additionally, children should know their parent or caregiver’s name and contact number.
Empowering Strategies for Child Safety
Here are some empowering strategies to help children stay safe without instilling fear, inspired by the expert insights of child safety educator, Carla James from Safe Kids United:
- Encourage children to trust their “uh-oh” feeling.
- Teach them to “check first” before going anywhere unfamiliar.
- Instill the idea that they are the “Boss of their Body” and that no one is permitted to harm them.
- Practice reciting their name, address, and phone number; engage them in fun activities to reinforce this knowledge if they are too young to memorize it.
- Explain that safe adults do not ask children for help.
- Empower them to say no if something feels off—there’s no need to be polite in such situations.
- Explain that private body parts are just that—private.
- If they become lost, they should stop, freeze, and seek help from a mother with children.
By adopting these approaches, you can transform potentially frightening conversations into empowering discussions. Be prepared for your child to have questions; this ongoing dialogue is a vital part of their learning process. For further insights on these topics, check out this blog post on our website.
In summary, addressing difficult subjects with children doesn’t have to be daunting. By equipping them with knowledge and strategies, you can help ensure they feel safe and empowered. Resources like the CDC offer valuable information on infertility and pregnancy, which can complement your parenting journey.