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Raise a Street Smart Child
September 14th, 2011
Building street smarts will help keep your child safe.
by: Paula Statman
In This Article
- 1. Be a protector and teacher.
- 2. Talk safety early.
- 3. Prepare - don't scare - your kids.
- 4. Help your child say "no."
- 5. Teach your child to respond to her instincts.
- 6. Teach and model healthy boundaries in relationships.
- 7. Protect, Prepare, Practice, Praise and Preview.
- 8. Monitor your child.
- 9. Cultivate your child's self esteem and desirable traits.
- 10. Say: "I love you."
Street Smarts
- As soon as your toddler says her first words, it's time to start talking to her about safety.
- Don't frighten your child by expressing your own fears–instead, be matter-of-fact when discussing sensitive issues.
- Teach your child to listen to her instincts and know it's okay to say "no" to anyone acting inappropriately.
- Use the five P's–protect, prepare, practice, praise, preview–to teach your child new skills.
- Children who are loved unconditionally feel more worthwhile and are less likely to mistreat others, or allow someone to mistreat them.
t's not easy to admit how scary our world can be–especially to our children. Here's how to create a street smart child without making your child fearful.
1. Be a protector and teacher.
No parent wants to admit that violence, bullying or online predators may find their way into their child's life. Unfortunately, most children will be exposed to at least one of these issues early in life. Be aware of any dangers in your neighborhood so you can better inform and protect your child.
child safety, protect child, bullying, living, street smart, streetwise, strangers, toddler safety




