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Check list for teaching young children about personal safety
- Teach them to tell you if anyone asks them to keep kiss, hug or touch a secret. Explain that no one should ask them to do this and you will never be angry at them if they tell you. Ensure that they know they must do this even if it feels good or if someone threatens them.
- Explain that it is alright to say NO, if they feel it is safe to do so. Practice with them. Shout NO loudly together. Also allow them to choose to not hug (or kiss) Great Aunt or Uncle when they come to visit if they don't want to. - Help them understand that their bodies belong to them. Explain that this means their entire body, including genitals. It is best if children know the correct names for all their body parts. However if this make you feel uncomfortable you can say "that includes the parts covered by bathing suits." Children who have been abused sometimes have bad or wrong ideas about their bodies: they need to learn to love themselves and be proud of their bodies. - Explain that they don’t always have to listen to and obey adults and that you will support them if they feel unsafe. - Tell them they can run away from someone who frightens them. - Help them understand that hugs and kisses are nice but are never kept secret.
Check list of what parents need to know how to do - To listen to children - To give children the power of information - To recognize from behavioral indicators when children have problem and need help - To find community resources to help their children when it is needed - To supervise their children... they rarely lie about abuse of any type - To discuss all topics of personal safety in a matter of a fact way - To choose appropriate caregivers for their child - To build their self esteem with lots of love, praise and attention
Check list of what children need to know how to do - To be safe - To protect their own bodies - To say "NO" - To get help against bullies - To tell - To be believed - To not keep secrets - To not accept bribes - To refuse touches - To never play in deserted or dark places - To not talk to stingers - To break rules to protect them - To always walk in confident manner - To trust their own judgment if things don't seem right. |
