As frightening and unpleasant it may be, as parents, we need to keep our kids protected from all sorts of danger.
Just like we put our heart and soul into getting them to school safely, putting a seat belt when they’re riding with us, we need to prepare them for the times we won’t be around.
Here are 6 steps to avoid the possibility of your child being hurt by a sexual predator.
1. Create the social and emotional foundation
Give young children the social-emotional skills they need to thrive, and this should be a major focus of early education as these skills logically mesh with the ideas of consent and respect. Understanding your own feelings and the feelings of others, through the use of emotional intelligence, perspective-taking, and empathy, is essential to respect.
2. Give the chance to say yes or no to decisions
Allow them to pick out their own clothes and have a voice in what they play, wear, and style their hair. Naturally, there are times when you must intervene, but try to convey to them that you heard their voice and that it matters to you, while also letting them know that you want to keep them safe and healthy.
3. Encourage kids to recognise various body language
Signals, such as those used to communicate fear, happiness, sadness, frustration, and anger. The best way to teach kids how to recognise body language is through guessing games like charades.
4. Teach the value of the words “no” and “stop”
One way to explain this is that when we hear ‘no,’ we always stop what we’re doing. Additionally, instil in your children the value of respecting their “nos.” Just like we always stop doing anything when someone says “no,” our peers should do the same when we stop them. If the behaviour persists after we say “no,” we should consider whether or not we feel comfortable and secure playing with them. If not, it is acceptable to choose different friends. If you think you need to step in, do so. Be gentle and let the other child know how important the word “no” is. Your child will learn to value it for both himself, and for other people.
5. Teach children to help those who might be in need
Talk to kids about helping other kids and inform trusted adults when someone else needs aid. Ask your children to observe interactions and take note of what goes on. Get them acclimated to keeping track of what they see and observe their behaviour. Praise your child for letting you know when someone is in trouble so that the proper assistance can be given.
6. Make use of your words
Don’t react to temper tantrums. Ask your child to tell you what’s going on using words, even if they’re simple ones, to explain to you what’s going on. Let your children know they can talk to you about anything, no matter how they are feeling. However, nobody else but they themselves are responsible for their feelings, needs, and wants. They still need to be kind and considerate to those around them.
