How to Talk About Safety Without Scaring Your Kids

As parents send their children back to school today after Winter Break, one of our most important jobs is to keep our children safe while preparing them to navigate the world confidently. Talking about safety can feel tricky—we want our kids to understand potential dangers without becoming fearful or anxious. The good news is that you can teach personal safety and emergency preparedness in a way that empowers your child rather than scares them. Here’s how.

1. Use Simple and Positive Language

When discussing safety, frame it in a way that feels approachable and reassuring. Instead of focusing on dangers, emphasize skills and solutions. For example:

• Instead of: “Strangers can hurt you,” try: “If someone you don’t know tries to talk to you, find a trusted adult.”
  
• Instead of: “You could get lost,” try: “If we get separated, stay where you are and I will find you.”
  

2. Teach Through Stories and Role Play

Children learn best through play and storytelling. Use age-appropriate scenarios to demonstrate what to do in different situations, such as:

• “What would you do if we got separated at the store?”
  
• “How would you respond if someone offered you a ride?”
  

Role-playing can make these lessons engaging while helping kids feel prepared to handle real-life situations.

3. Focus on Trusted Adults

Teach your child how to identify safe adults they can go to for help, such as teachers, police officers, or store employees. Create a short list of trusted family friends and relatives your child can call in an emergency.

4. Empower Them with Knowledge

Knowing what to do in emergencies can help children feel in control rather than helpless. Teach your child:

• Their full name, address, and a parent’s phone number.
  
• How to dial 911 and what to say in an emergency.
  
• Basic household safety rules, such as not opening the door for strangers.
  

5. Practice Makes Perfect

Regular practice builds confidence. Conduct fire drills at home, practice crossing the street safely, and review what to do in various scenarios. Repetition reinforces these skills without making the conversation feel heavy.

6. Answer Questions Honestly but Calmly

If your child has questions, answer them honestly while staying calm. For example:

• If they ask, “What happens if there’s a fire?” you could say, “Fires are very rare, but if one happens, we have a plan to keep us safe and this is what it is.”
• If they say, “We practiced what to do if someone comes to school with a gun. I’m afraid that will happen”, you could say, “There are thousands of schools in this country, so the odds of that happening are pretty low, but your school has a plan in place, and we can talk about what that plan is.”

7. Teach Personal Boundaries

Helping kids understand personal boundaries is a critical part of safety. Teach them:

• The difference between safe and unsafe touch.
  
• That it’s okay to say “no” to adults if something feels wrong.
  
• To always tell a trusted adult if they feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
  

8. Be a Role Model

Children observe and mimic their parents. Demonstrate calm and proactive behavior when addressing safety, whether you’re practicing a fire drill or crossing the street together.

9. End with Reassurance

Always remind your child that they are loved and that their safety is your top priority. Let them know that these lessons are not meant to scare them but to keep them safe and strong.

Talking about safety doesn’t have to be intimidating. By framing these conversations positively and practicing regularly, you can equip your child with essential skills while nurturing their confidence. Remember, the goal is to prepare, not to scare. With your guidance, your child can navigate the world feeling safe and secure.

Also, if you’re looking for a great Valentine’s Day gift for your child, my book “I Love You to the Moon and Back” comes with free Love Notes you can use as Valentines or ways to send your love with them wherever they go!