Educating Children about personal safety is one of the most important things a parent or caregiver can do. Education in how to be safe a variety of situations can build resilience, confidence and create empowerment. Research shows that teaching personal safety can reduce the likelihood of a child entering an unsafe situation, how to respond to an unsafe situation, increases a child’s knowledge of their personal rights, confidence and likelihood that a child will speak out if they feel unsafe and tell someone they trust. This can interrupt or prevent grooming.
Its never to early to teach personal safety.
Teaching children these principles can help empower and build a child’s confidence. These principles are:
Distinguish ‘yes’ and ‘no’ feelings and to trust their feelings
To say ‘no’ to adults if they feel unsafe and unsure. Its ok to say NO
That they own their own bodies
That nothing is so yucky they can’t tell anyone about it
That if they feel unsafe or unsure to run and tell someone they trust
The biggest tool to help your child navigate their personal safety is being able to talk to their parent/caregiver/safe person. Encourage your child to feel comfortable in telling you anything in everyday life. Strive to remain calm, non critical and non judgmental when talking to your child as this approach will aid their confidence in navigating any difficult conversations in the future.
Practice basic safety skills with your child. Make every outing a teachable experience. This includes checking in with you before going to another location ie Toilets, playground and locating safe adults who can help if they need assistance (ie. Family members, police) Remind your children to never go off with someone unless they come and tell you first.
Keeping the conversation going with your child from a young age about personal safety is one of the most important things you can aid your child with as they grow up. For more information on how to teach or talk about personal safety to your child visit bravehearts.org.au or danielmorcombe.com.au