In today’s world safety has become a significant concern for parents, especially in our region, our district, where numerous children are missing. Children have been brutally killed and violence towards children is increasing exponentially.
One wonders, daily, how one can keep one’s children safe in a world fraught with danger. How do you protect them, ensure they are able to stay safe amid wolves who are out there to devour them?
Firstly, parents must educate their children on personal safety. Teaching them about their surroundings helps them develop awareness and recognises potential dangers.
For instance, children should know basic-safety rules such as not talking to strangers and what to do when they find themselves in uncomfortable situations.
Role playing can be an effective way to practise these scenarios. For example, parents may simulate situations where a child needs to call for help or identify a trusted adult.
Parents should keep abreast of community-safety issues and be aware of whom to contact in case of emergencies. For instance, in recent years the issue of school safety has arisen due to incidents of violence.
Schools are adopting measures such as emergency drills and mental-health resources, which parents must engage with to ensure their children are aware of these practices and how to respond effectively.
Another essential aspect is the use of technology. In recent years smartphones and other devices have become integral to keeping children connected to their parents.
Parents can use tracking apps and set up communication protocols for their children to follow. For instance, a child can be instructed to text or contact their parent at certain times or when they reach a specific destination as parents should always know where their children are.
However, it is important to strike a balance and ensure that children use technology responsibly and do not fall prey to online dangers. They should be taught the dangers of the internet and the dangers of the anonymity that social media offers paedophiles, rapists and violent abusers.
Lastly, fostering strong family relationships contributes significantly to a child’s sense of security.
When children feel loved and supported they are more likely to communicate about potential risks they may encounter. We as parents should listen to our children, make time for them, so they can tell us the things that frighten, bother or hurt them, or they will trust that stranger online, the one who seduces them with the care they lack.
Family discussions on safety, whether at home or in various communities, can empower children and lessen their fears.
In conclusion, keeping children safe in uncertain times involves a blend of education, awareness, technology and strong familial bonds. By employing these strategies parents can create an environment that not only safeguards their children, but also prepares them to navigate potential threats with confidence.
In short, listen, listen and listen to your children. Let them be close to you, become their safe place in a stormy world.
