Key steps to ensure child safety in today’s world

Concerned about your child's safety? Check out these expert strategies to protect your children from strangers and online risks. Build trust, monitor online activities, and create a secure environment for your child's peace of mind.

In light of recent concerns regarding child safety, Annelize Tichauer, Linden CPF chairperson, emphasises the importance of having a stranger-danger conversation with children. Tichauer, along with director of SCP Security Clive Maher, highlight specific guidelines for parents to ensure the safety of their children in today’s ever-evolving world.

The first step, Tichauer suggests, is to ensure that children know their parents’ contact number by heart. “In case of an emergency or suspicious encounter, this knowledge will enable them to seek help promptly.”

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Additionally, parents should walk their children to the school gate and remind them about the importance of not trusting strangers. Reinforcing this message regularly will help children understand the potential risks associated with unknown individuals, according to Tichauer.

Maher emphasises the need for parents to establish a trusting relationship with their children. “This relationship serves as a foundation for open discussions and a sense of security within the home environment.”

He stated that by being role models and guiding their children’s behaviour, parents can effectively teach them about right and wrong. Maher also advises parents to be mindful of their own actions, as children often mimic their behaviour.

He further mentioned that in today’s technology-driven world, it is challenging to keep cellphones and tablets away from children and that parents must have conversations with their children about the risks involved in using these devices.

“For instance, children should be cautioned against taking and sharing inappropriate pictures on platforms like WhatsApp or Snapchat. Once a picture is out on the internet, it becomes nearly impossible to control its dissemination. Encouraging children to think before sharing and to be proud of their digital footprint can help protect their privacy and safety.”

To further foster a safe environment, Tichauer suggests that parents regularly check their children’s phones and social media accounts. This practice allows parents to monitor their children’s online interactions, ensuring they are communicating with trusted individuals.

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She expressed that parents should assure their children that they can talk to them about anything, even if they believe it may be considered ‘bad’. “Open lines of communication build trust and encourage children to seek guidance when they face unfamiliar or uncomfortable situations.”

Trusting parental instincts is crucial when it comes to child safety. Tichauer advises parents to connect with their children regularly and pay attention to any subtle signs that something may be amiss.

Establishing a safe word to be used when someone other than the parent needs to pick up the child adds an extra layer of security. While it can be challenging to provide foolproof tips for children to keep themselves safe, Maher suggests that a structured home life is essential.

Involving children in household chores, such as washing dishes or tidying up, gives them a sense of responsibility and structure. This structure helps foster discipline and aids in developing a child’s understanding of boundaries.

Finally, technology can be utilised to enhance child safety. Maher recommends using devices like AirTags, available in smartphones like iPhone and Samsung, which allow parents to track their child’s location at all times.

“This technology provides peace of mind and ensures a child’s safety, especially in unfamiliar environments. In conclusion, protecting children in an ever-changing world requires proactive efforts from parents.”

Maher concluded by having open discussions, fostering trust, monitoring online activities, and establishing a structured home life, parents can create a safe environment for their children. Additionally, utilising technology tools like that can enhance child safety and offer reassurance. “Ultimately, it is through a combination of vigilance, communication, and a strong parent-child relationship that we can safeguard our children’s well-being in an increasingly complex world.”

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