Every parent has that one fear that keeps them up at night—the thought of something terrible happening to their child. Whether it’s choking, drowning, abduction, or accidents at home, these concerns can be overwhelming.
When my friend Jessica was a single mother to her three-year-old, she devised a clever way to teach her daughter about safety called the “911 game.” The conversation would go something like this:
Jessica: “Hello, 911 operator, what’s your emergency?”
Three-year-old: “Um, my mommy!” (We always chuckled at that response.)
Jessica: “Is something wrong with your mommy? Do you know her name?”
Three-year-old: “She fell down!” (Making up emergencies was part of the fun.)
Jessica: “Okay, what’s your address?”
This playful approach ensured her daughter learned vital information like her full name and how to ask for help in case something went wrong. It’s fascinating to think about how most children learn to contact emergency services. We often hear heartwarming stories of young kids stepping up to save their parents in a crisis.
Many parents, in an effort to protect their children, inadvertently instill fear by emphasizing the dangers of the outside world. Phrases like “Don’t talk to strangers” are common, but the reality is that 90% of harm to children comes from people they know. With millions of reported cases of abuse each year, it’s essential to focus on teaching children about safety in a more constructive manner.
Children should be empowered to listen to their instincts. If they feel uncomfortable, whether it’s about hugging a relative or being in a certain situation, their feelings should be respected. Beyond the fear of abduction, it’s crucial to equip them with strategies for when they get lost. Did you know that approximately 70% of kids will experience getting lost at some point? Instead of outdated advice about finding a police officer, children should be taught to look for a mom with kids, as they are often a safer option. Moreover, knowing their caregiver’s name and phone number can be invaluable.
Guidelines for Keeping Your Child Safe
Here are some thoughtful guidelines to share with your child to help them stay safe without inducing fear, courtesy of safety expert, Pattie Fitzgerald from Safely Ever After, Inc.:
- Encourage kids to trust their “uh-oh” feelings.
- Teach them to “check first” before going anywhere unfamiliar.
- Help them understand they are the “Boss of their Body” and no one can hurt them.
- Practice their name, address, and phone number regularly, or engage them in fun activities to aid memorization.
- Clarify that safe adults do not ask children for help.
- Empower them to say no if something feels wrong—they don’t have to be polite in those situations.
- Explain that everyone’s private parts are private.
- If they get lost, they should freeze and yell or seek help from a mom with children.
By discussing these important topics in a calm and reassuring way, parents can facilitate a productive dialogue without instilling unnecessary fear. Expect questions—this shouldn’t be a one-time talk but an ongoing conversation as your child grows. These strategies will help keep your little ones secure while ensuring they feel confident and informed.
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In summary, by talking openly about safety and empowering children with knowledge, parents can help their kids navigate the world around them without fear.