“It’s important to teach a child how their body feels if they feel scared, for example if they see a spider and how to recognise unsafe situations,” Ms Dickson said.
“Children also need a network whom they recognise as safe adults since every adult they know might not be safe.
“We also need to teach them that they are the boss of their bodies in a positive yet empowering way; no one can ask to look, touch or see inside their undies. That is what is known as the ‘undies rule’ and that’s when they should say ‘No’ in a loud voice, especially so others can hear.
“The big message, though, isn’t sex education, it is personal safety which we can help you discuss with your child in everyday conversations.”
Expanding on the SAFE series of four children’s books from the NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian, Ms Dickson will be outlining strategies for parents and carers at a ‘Simple Conversations That Help Keep Children Safe’ workshop at KU Milperra Preschool, 12 Amiens Avenue, Milperra on Wednesday, September 4, 6-7.30pm.
Tickets, $11, available from eventbrite.com.au.
Strategies to keep children safe
SAYING the old ‘stranger danger’ rules that many of us were taught are just the tip of the iceberg, KU Children’s Services’ Child Safety Facilitator Debbie Dickson says that children need to be taught about personal safety just as they are about sun, water or road safety.
