CHILDREN PROTECTING THEMSELVES © Laser Learning Ltd 2010

A learned behaviour Young children are naturally very trusting and need to be taught how to recognise threats to their personal safety and well-being. This process is started by parents and continued by others the child comes into contact with as well as by experience. © Laser Learning Ltd 2010

A matter of development When and how a child should gain the knowledge to protect themselves will depend on their stage of development. Parents and carers need to judge when a child is physically or emotionally ready. Teaching children about personal safety is important but should not cause them to become alarmed or frightened. © Laser Learning Ltd 2010

Rules and boundaries Children and young people should be taught from an early age that rules and boundaries are there for their protection. Explanations of why each rule is necessary will help them to appreciate their importance. Children should be able to enjoy in safety. © Laser Learning Ltd 2010

Common rules Common rules and boundaries include: Don’t get into a car with someone you don’t know Don’t talk to strangers Don’t cross the road without looking both ways Stay with the person looking after you Don’t play with matches © Laser Learning Ltd 2010

Contextual rules Some children learn other rules that are specific to their context e.g. Living on a farm – Don’t play on the farm machinery Dog owner - Don’t take the dog’s food away while he is eating On the beach – make sure you swim between the flags © Laser Learning Ltd 2010

Move with the times It is now quite common for children to have access to their own computer and mobile phone. This has created the need for a whole new set of rules and boundaries to protect them from potential harm. The difficulty though is that most parents are less familiar with this kind of technology and are themselves learning about the possible dangers and how to protect their children. © Laser Learning Ltd 2010

Step by step process In order for children and young people to protect themselves they must be able to: See the potential risks Assess the danger and the possible outcomes Understand what they can do to avoid or reduce the risk Know what to do if they feel threatened © Laser Learning Ltd 2010

Activity Plan an activity for a child or group of children you work with which teaches them about safe behaviour. You may like to prepare for your planning by finding out what they already know about keeping safe. © Laser Learning Ltd 2010