Parents should role model safety practices, says NCC |31 August 2013

As members of the wider community, we must act to ensure that every environment where children are present is safe. When parents are talking to kids about safety, it’s important to reassure them - not scare them. That means communicating in a positive way that builds confidence and self-esteem.

Instead of waiting for “the right time” to talk to kids, make the most of everyday moments. A relaxed family meal provides the perfect opportunity to get kids to tune into safety messages, especially when eating their favourite food. A bus ride or car ride to go to the supermarket offers another great chance to model safety precautions or to talk to your children about safety.

The National Council for Children (NCC) encourages parents to ask two key questions when they are thinking about child safety:

Do children understand the concept of safety and can they recognise when they are not feeling safe?

Do children know what to do, or who to turn to if they do not feel safe?

Gear discussions to your child’s level, taking into account their age and understanding. For instance, a typical four-year-old won’t sit through long explanations or retain a lot of information. Encourage your children to talk openly about their questions and worries. Let them know you care about what happens to them by setting clear rules, but try not to lecture or criticize them.
 Interact with your children in a way that makes them feel safe and loved. Encourage them to communicate with someone they can trust  when they feel hurt or scared – maybe to dad, their aunt, the teacher or grandparents if mum is not around.

NCC understands the importance of keeping children safe not only when they are at home but at school, in the playground, on the road and everywhere.  For example young children should not be left at home without adult supervision even if they are of an age when parents think they can cook by themselves. Have you taught your children fire safety precautions and what to do if a fire breaks out in the home?   Are you locking away medicines and keeping them out of reach of small children? Do you let your toddler play in the bath tub unsupervised?  What about age appropriate toys do you look for and respect instructions for guidance? Do you speak to older children involved in recreational activities about using adequate equipment, protective gear or clothing, safe facilities, proper rules of safe play, and rational approaches to activities requiring advanced skill levels?

Young people need to be acutely aware of the potential dangers -- including sudden death -- which may occur not only with regular substance abuse, but even experimental use of drugs and alcohol.

Over the years the NCC has built a strong collaborative relationships with different safety committees and worked to dedicate its effort towards ensuring the safety and well-being of children and young people. Parents can always talk to a counselor at the NCC for guidance on safety issues by telephoning for an appointment or simply walk in our centre at Bel Eau.

Contributed