Children need to know that they are not alone and that there are safe people they can turn to when they feel scared or uncomfortable. A safe person is someone who makes you feel protected and listened to. This could be a parent, grandparent, sibling, teacher, or even a neighbor. Safe people are those who respect your feelings and boundaries and are there to help you when you need it. Teaching children to recognize who their safe people are is a crucial step in ensuring their safety and well-being.

Parents can start by having conversations with their children about what it means to be a safe person. Explain that a safe person is someone they can trust and will believe them, no matter what. It is important for children to know that they can always go to their safe person if something makes them feel bad or scared.

One effective way to help children understand the concept of safe people is through role-playing. Parents can act out scenarios where the child might need help. For example, if someone at school is bullying them or an adult behaves inappropriately, the child can practice what they would say and do. This helps build their confidence and prepares them for real-life situations.

Encouraging children to identify multiple safe people is also beneficial. This way, if one safe person is not available, they have other trusted adults they can turn to. It is important for parents to remind their children that it is always okay to ask for help and that they should never keep unsafe secrets.

Parents should also make it clear that they are always available to listen and support their children. Reassure your child that nothing they say will ever make you love them any less. Creating an open and non-judgmental environment at home can make a big difference in how comfortable a child feels about sharing their concerns.

In addition to family members, children should know that there are other safe people outside of the home. Teachers, school counselors, bus drivers, doctors, and even police officers can be safe people to turn to in times of need. Make sure your child knows how to contact these individuals and when it is appropriate to seek their help.

Sometimes, unsafe people try to manipulate children by making them feel guilty or scared about telling someone. They might say things like, “If you tell, we will both get in trouble,” or “No one will believe you.” It is important for children to know that these statements are not true. They should be encouraged to trust their feelings and to always speak out, even if they are afraid.

Empowering children to speak up and identify safe people is essential for their safety and emotional well-being. Parents play a key role in this process by creating a supportive environment and having open conversations about trust and boundaries. By teaching children to recognize and seek out their safe people, we can help them feel more secure and confident in dealing with difficult situations. Remember, every child deserves to feel safe and heard. Encourage them to speak up and always be there to support them.