|

|
Welcome to AYSO Region
253
Serving the communities of Bentley, Halstead, Kechi, North Wichita,
Park City, Sedgwick, Valley Center and Whitewater. |
|
|
Talking to Children About
Safety
- Avoid
scare tactics when discussing personal safety. Reassure your child that
most people are kind and safe. Those who are not are the
exception.
- Teach
your child basic sex education, i.e., the areas of the body covered by a
bathing suit are private.
- Instill
within your child a sense of self-worth at every
opportunity.
- Develop
strong communication skills with your children. Explain the importance
of reporting abuse to you or another trusted adult.
- Establish
that sexual abuse is a crime. This gives children the confidence to
assert themselves with those who try to abuse them.
- Allow
children to express affection on their own terms. Do not instruct them
to "Give Uncle Jimmy a kiss" or "Give Aunt Susan a hug."
- Stress
that there should be no secrets from you, especially those involving an
adult.
- Stress
the importance of reporting rumors or threats of violence, including
bomb threats and weapon possession by schoolmates. Reinforce that
reporting can be done anonymously, but that school officials must be
told for the safety of everyone.
- Above
all, encourage children to recognize, trust and follow their instincts
-- and listen to your own instincts. If a situation or person makes you
or your child uneasy, believe in your feelings and act on them.
|