The world is a big a scary place, and while your kid is still a toddler, you can protect him from whatever danger there could be. But as child grows and starts to explore the world on his own, you as a parent have a full right to start worrying. One of the biggest fears for every parent is a call with news that something has happened to a child – with all the resonance around accidents involving children the fear is explainable, yet exaggerated. Experts claim that most cases of abuse and abductions can be prevented by parents and kids themselves. And it is your task to teach a child about dangers and how to prevent them. Here is a little guide for you to follow.
- Be close with your child
Psychologists say that kids who are being raised in understanding and attentive family where they are heard and taken seriously are more likely to become independent and able to fight back for themselves and to ask for help whenever needed. Thus, if you want to keep kid from any risks, be sure to have close relationship with your child. Talk to your child every day, encourage him expressing emotions and problems.
- Teach your kid about bullying and how to prevent it
Bullying is known to be a part of kids growing up process, and reasons why certain kids choose to mock other children can be different, but most of the time it is self-doubt and lack of attention from beloved ones. If you want to be sure your kid does not fall a victim of bullying, and what is more – cyberbullying which is becoming even more widespread because of overall smartphone use, it is essential you teach him about right behavior. And just to be sure use parental monitoring app that would help you look over child’s online activities – this would help you ensuring kid is safe and secure.
- Teach your child to trust instincts
The general idea ‘stranger danger’ is common thing to teach your child, but encouraging a kid to trust his instincts and intuition would be a better thing. Explain him that people are generally okay, but there are some people that might harm them. Tell your kid that staying safe and trusting their instincts is better than being polite. Teach that it is fine to question, to disagree and even run away from people who seem to be suspicious or dangerous.
- Ensure sports are safe
If you want to reduce the risk of brain injury for your child while he is skating, cycling or doing other active sports, teach him that helmet is an obligatory, non-negotiable thing. And also remember – every child should know how to swim and behave around the water. Be sure your kid knows that diving into shallow or untried water is a ‘no’ for everyone who wants to stay safe and sound.
- Pay close attention to their health and diet
This applies to kids of any age – it is always better to prevent illness than treat it. Thus, it is important that your child is regularly checked by pediatrician. Doctors advise scheduling pediatrics exams regularly at the end of the summer, right before school starts, and a couple or two during the year. This will save your kid from most health issues in future.
Another problem of young generation is obesity, and it is your task as a parent to protect your child from health and weight problems by teaching them about nutrition and healthy diet. Explain your kid about food and calories, and the difference between fast food and well-balanced meal. Your personal example will always work better.
