Every parent has that one nagging fear when it comes to their child—the thought that sends a chill down their spine. Is it choking? Drowning? Kidnapping? Accidents at home? It’s a long list of concerns that can keep you awake at night.
A friend of mine, Sarah, had a unique approach to addressing safety with her three-year-old daughter, Emma. They played a little game called the Emergency Call Game. Here’s how it went:
Sarah: "Hello, this is 911, what’s your emergency?" Emma: "Um, my mommy!" (We always chuckled at the innocence of that response.) Sarah: "Is something wrong? Do you know her name?" Emma: "Um, she fell down!" Sarah: "Alright, what’s your address, little one?"
And the game would continue from there.
This creative way of teaching Emma her address, phone number, and how to seek help was brilliant. It’s crucial that children know how to respond in emergencies, especially since most kids don’t really know what to do when faced with a crisis. We’ve all heard heartwarming stories of young children calling for help when their parents needed it.
Unfortunately, many parents inadvertently instill fear in their kids while trying to teach them about safety. The phrase “Don’t talk to strangers” is commonly used, but here’s the reality: 90% of harm to children comes from someone they know. With over 6 million reported abuse cases each year, most incidents involve familiar faces.
Instead of instilling fear, we should encourage kids to trust their instincts and be aware of their feelings. If they’re hesitant about hugging Uncle Bob at family gatherings, let’s respect that. They know what feels right or wrong.
But it’s not just about avoiding strangers. Children should also learn what to do if they ever find themselves lost. Did you know that 70% of kids will get lost at least once in their lives? Instead of just looking for a police officer, it’s now suggested that they find a mom with kids, as they are often the safest and most approachable option. It’s also essential for kids to remember their caregiver’s name and contact number.
Let’s empower our children to stay safe without overwhelming them with fear. Here are some practical guidelines to consider, inspired by expert Pattie Fitzgerald from Safely Ever After, Inc:
- Encourage kids to trust their “uh-oh feeling.”
- Teach them to “check first” before going anywhere unfamiliar.
- Help them understand they are the “Boss of their Body” and no one should harm them.
- Practice their name, address, and phone number regularly (and if they’re too young, you can engage them in some fun crafts).
- Explain that safe adults don’t ask kids for help.
- Empower them to say no if something feels off—they don’t have to be polite in those situations.
- Remind them that everyone’s private parts are just that—private.
- If they ever get lost, they should freeze and yell or seek help from a mom with kids.
Navigating these tough conversations doesn’t have to be terrifying. Expect plenty of questions—it’s a sign of a healthy curiosity! This isn’t a one-off chat; it’s an ongoing dialogue that can help keep your child happy, healthy, and secure.
For more insights, you can check out this resource on pregnancy and home insemination or explore the at-home insemination kits available. And if you want to dive deeper into related topics, don’t miss this blog post.
Summary:
This article discusses how to address difficult safety topics with children without instilling fear. Instead of focusing on scary scenarios, parents can empower their kids with knowledge and encourage them to trust their instincts. Practical guidelines are provided to help children feel safe and secure.