Next up:
Bellevue/LD
48 Safe Child
Town Hall / September 18, 7-830 PM at
Highland
Middle School on Belle-Red Road / Children Welcome!
Topics: Preventing Crimes against Children / Real Risks to Children,
Families, and Communities on the Eastside / Responding to Violence
against your Child or Family
Tacoma Safe Child Town Hall Report
Safety Starts At Home:
Parents and care givers are the first and
essential barrier between their children and violent crime. Not
Schools. Not Police. Not Government.
Educate Yourself /
Empower Your Children
The Essentials:
- Start Early - When your child is old enough to learn 'danger! hot!' then your child is old enough to learn what body parts are private.
- Trust Your Instincts, and Your Child's - That 'ick' feeling is your brain telling you that something is wrong. If your kid gets an 'ick' feeling, listen to them. If they don't want to hug someone, or spend time with someone, don't pressure them to do so.
- You can Trust Everyone - so long as they stay within their roles: 'Good' adults don't ask kids for help or directions; acquaintances don't offer children rides or treats - they talk to the parents first. Ice cream sellers don't give product away. If someone is acting outside of their role, ask yourself 'why?'
- Understand Parental Controls - A parental control is a boundary that you install, on your computer or on your community. Determine the path your child will travel to and from school. Arrange for your child to walk with other kids. Introduce yourself to the parents of his friends. Ask about their day, and listen to their answer.
- Remain Calm - If something happens to your child, you need to be the port in the storm. Children are less likely to report a crime committed against them if they think you will become extremely emotional. All discussions about safety and security should be conducted as calmly and pro-actively as possible.