Back to School > 15 Steps for Safeguarding Your Child

Avoid scare tactics when discussing personal safety. Reassure your child most people are kind. Instill within your child a sense of self-worth at every opportunity. Teach your child about sex education but keep it basic, i.e. "The areas of the body covered by a bathing suit are private." Establish that sexual abuse is a crime. This gives children the confidence to assert themselves with those who try to abuse them. Allow children to express affection on their own terms. Do not instruct them to "Give Uncle Jimmy a kiss" or "Give Aunt Susan a hug." Stress that there should be no secrets from you, especially those involving an adult. Develop strong communication skills with your children. Explain the importance of reporting abuse to you or another trusted adult. Make a commitment to spend quality time with your child. Lonely and attention-starved youngsters are most vulnerable to abuse. Make it a priority to get to know your child's friends and their families. Encourage involvement in extracurricular activities. Youngsters with many interests are less likely to become involved with drugs or other negative influences. Volunteer to chaperone activities like Boy Scouts and sporting events, especially those involving overnight trips. Do not rely on the "buddy system." While it may make children (and parents) feel safer, its effectiveness is questionable. In many instances, sisters, brothers and playmates have been victims of terrible crimes when together. Instruct children never to go with or get in a car with anyone, unless you have given them direct permission. Stress the importance of reporting rumors or threats of violence, including bomb threats and weapon possession by schoolmates. Reinforce that reporting can be done anonymously, but that school officials must be told for the safety of everyone. Above all, encourage children to recognize, trust and follow their instincts -- and listen to your own instincts. If a situation or person makes you or your child uneasy, believe in your feelings and act on them.