Random Thoughts

Here's another article that is very information by Mariel Uyquiengco of MumCentre.com.

1. Privates should remain private

The underwear rule, which is to keep the parts that their underwear covers covered, is the first thing that you should teach your kids even at a young age.

Small children can be taught that only Mommy and Daddy can see their privates during bath time. If you keep repeating or asking your kids about this rule, they will easily remember it.

2. The difference between surprise and secret

Those who commit child abuse often employ the power of secrets. Threats keep children from telling anyone about any violation.

Early on, teach your kids about good secrets and bad secrets. Good secrets would make them feel happy and excited, such as surprises. Bad secrets, however, would make them feel uneasy, sad, or angry. Encourage the no-secret rule in your family.

3. Their names, address, and phone number

Children should be able to say their complete name, address, parents’ names, and phone number in case they get lost or find themselves in an unfamiliar place. Knowing these details will help your child find help.

The easiest way to teach these to your child is through a song. Pick a tune that is easy to remember and sing the important details. Do this several times until your child can sing it without hesitation.

4. Stranger danger

Though child abuse cases usually involve people in a child’s life, there is still danger from strangers. Teach your child about the dangers of talking to people they don’t know and who just approach them out of the blue. Emphasize that he should never go with someone he doesn’t know.

Make some rules about what to do when a stranger approaches your child. Tell him to shout and run as fast as he can to a crowd and ask for help.

5. To keep close to you in crowded places

It is easy to lose each other in a crowd. Hold hands and remind your child to never stray away from you. If he wants to go somewhere else, tell him to make sure to ask you first so that you can take him there.

If your child is older than 8 (or whatever age you are comfortable with to let him go on his own) and wants to check out something in another place, set a meeting time and place and make sure that he can contact you via mobile phone.

6. Boundaries

Children must learn that there are places that they cannot go to by themselves. Make these off-limits places clear to your child. Examples would be abandoned houses or buildings, construction sites, and storage rooms. If your child is fascinated by a particular place that you find unsafe, ask him why he likes it, offer an alternative, and explain why it’s off-limits to him.

7. That they can always talk to you

Children need to know that they can talk to their parents and that they are unconditionally and unquestionably loved. Let your child know that she can talk to you about anything at all times.

You and your spouse should be the first persons your children should approach when they are feeling scared or worried about something. This is possible if you have a strong and trusting relationship with them.