Teach Simple Rules About Safety with Adults
Keeping children safe is an important job for parents. You want your child to respect and trust others, but you also need to teach your child to be careful. Following are some simple rules and ways that you can start a conversation with your child about different safety issues.
- “If you’re not sure, ask me.”
- “If an adult asks you to do something that you’re not sure is OK, always ask me first. I won’t get mad at you for asking.”
- “No secrets.”
- “No one should ever tell you to keep a secret from me—one that might make me mad if I found out. Adults should never expect you to do this.”
- “Certain body parts are private.”
- “No adults (except parents, doctors, and nurses) should touch you where you normally wear a bathing suit.”
- “If we get separated, find a security guard or police officer.”
- “This is a very busy place. If you can’t find me, find a security guard or police officer, or ask someone to help you find one. That person will help you find me.”
- When you take your child to a crowded place, look around and point out the person who is there to help if you do become separated.
Help Your Child Become a Good Friend
Four- to six-year-old are learning what it means to be a friend. They will have fun times as well as arguments and hurt feelings. It can be tempting for parents to try to solve these problems themselves or by talking with the other child’s parent. Instead, guide your child to solve problems. With your help, your child can learn how to solve social problems.
- Help your child understand the other child’s point of view. “I guess Suzie wants a turn too.”
- Teach your child the following:
Stay calm
Do not hit, grab, or shove
- Use words:
“I get upset when you talk to me like that.”
“I’m sad you don’t want to play with me.”
“I’m angry you took the ball from me.”
- Stand close by and watch as the children solve their problem. Being close by puts the children on their best behavior. This is how they begin to develop the confidence and skills to communicate honestly, calmly, and politely with others.
Last Updated 11/2/2009
Source Connected Kids: Safe, Strong, Secure (Copyright © 2006 American Academy of Pediatrics)
The information contained on this Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.
