Summer is here, and so are the strangers…..

Summer is here, and so are the strangers…..

A stranger is a stranger because you don't know them, not because they may look dangerous or “different.”

All too often we try and tell children about “how” a stranger will approach and trick them. Don’t get me wrong, it’s very important they know what these tricks are. However, for now we are going to focus on giving our children a defense before anything happens. As the old saying goes, “the best offense is a good defense.” These simple rules will make your children feel comfortable, in control and confident. With the three “Never Rules”, your children are protected against any trick that comes their way.

Ok, here they are….

1 - NEVER GO WITH ANYONE YOU DON’T KNOW WELL… NEVER

No matter what they tell you, don’t GO with them.

2 - NEVER DO ANYTHING OR HELP ANYONE YOU DON’T KNOW WELL… NEVER

No matter what, you never help or DO anything for them.

3 - NEVER TAKE ANYTHING FROM ANYONE YOU DON’T KNOW WELL…. NEVER

No matter what they have to offer you, never TAKE anything for them.

As simple as the “Never Rules” sound and as easy as they are, they work. I look at it as akin to wearing my seat belt. When I get into my car I don’t think, “Oh, today I’m going to be involved in a head on collision or someone is going to rear end me.” No, I think, “Just in case I’m in an accident, I’m protected.” That is how we need to look at the “Never Rules.” Hopefully, your children will never be approached by someone who will hurt them. But just in case, they are protected because they know the Never Rules!

Keep talking about the “Never Rules” If you talk about the “Never Rules” with your children frequently, they will become automatic. Praise your children often when they get the answers right. This helps build self-confidence, belief in themselves and belief in the Never Rules. Remember, a little every day will last a lifetime. If your children never break a Never Rule, they will always be safe.

If you keep the Never Rules fresh in their minds, when any situation arises that could put your child in danger, they will never break a Never Rule! They will be calm and react the way you want them to.

Recap….

The best offense is a good defense.

Never Go

Never Do

Never Take

There you go, simple and easy, yet very effective. The key is to teach your children at an early age and to practice, practice, practice!

Until next time.... Practice!