Personal Safety Tips for Parents

 

These tips are in line with the classroom personal safety lessons that GCPS  Elementary and Middle School Counselors provide annually to students K-8. 

· Instill your child with a sense of self-worth. 

· Make sure even very young children know their full name, whole address and phone number. Teach them how to dial 911. 

· Reassure your child that most adults are committed to the safety and happiness of children and can be trusted for help if the need arises. 

· Practice choosing someone safe with your child. (Who would you go to for help if…)

· Teach children that the areas of the body covered by a bathing suit are private.

· Emphasize that inappropriate touches are against the law. This gives children confidence to assert themselves with those who might try to abuse them.

· Let children express affection on their own terms. Do not instruct them to “Give Uncle Jimmy a kiss” or “Give Aunt Sally a hug.” 

· Stress that there should be no secrets from you – especially secrets that make your child scared, sad, or anxious.

· Explain the importance of reporting abuse or attempted abuse to you and another trusted adult.

· Do not rely entirely on the “buddy system” for safety. In many documented cases, sisters, brothers, and playmates have been victims of crimes when together.

· Encourage involvement in extracurricular activities. Children with many interests are less likely to experiment with drugs or other negative influences.

· Make it a priority to get to know your children’s friends and their families. · Stress the importance of following “netiquette” and online safety rules. 

· Above all, encourage children to recognize, trust, and follow their instincts about people and situations. Parents should do the same.