Kids Self Defense Prevention Tips

Because Knowledge is Power…

1. Remind your children:  Safe grownups don’t ask kids for help!
2. Never leave young children unsupervised… not even for a minute.
3. Replace the word “Stranger” with “Tricky Person.”  It’s not what someone looks like, it’s what they say or want to do with a child do that makes them unsafe or “Tricky.”
4. A Tricky Person can be someone you know well, don’t know at all, or know just a little bit…  Like the mail carrier or the ice cream man. Anyone who tries to get a child to break their safety rules or hurt their body is not okay.
5. Listen to your child.  If they don’t want to be around a particular person, such as a babysitter, relative, or family friend, don’t force them.  They may be getting a “red flag” signal that you are unaware of.
6. Be mindful of settings where older children have a lot of privacy with younger children.  Keep doors open, especially during play dates.
7. Practice personal safety strategies with your kids:  What would they do if they were lost in a store? What would they say if someone asked them for directions or assistance?
8. Do not write your child’s name on the outside of personal belongings, such as a backpack or jacket.
9. Older children should always use the buddy system whenever and wherever possible.
10. “The Uh-oh Feeling”    –     Trust your instincts and tell your children is okay to trust theirs.
11. Establish a straightforward family rule: No secrets allowed, especially if it involves “Private Parts” or “Uh-oh” touches. It is always okay to tell!
12. Let children decide for themselves how they want to express affection.  Do not force them to hug or kiss another person.
13. Spend time with your kids. Children who are starved for attention are particularly vulnerable to a predator’s tricks.
14. Volunteer at your child’s school or other activities.  Know who the people are that are interacting with your children.
15. Develop strong communication skills with your child so they will feel safe coming to you if something is bothering them.
16. Teach safety concepts in a loving, easy-going manner.  Scare tactics can make a child fearful and are not necessary.

Source Credit: Safely Ever After, inc.