Parent's Corner

Discussing personal safety with middle schoolers is an essential conversation for parents.

 

Remember, every child is different, so tailor your approach to your child's needs. By having open and honest conversations about personal safety, you can help empower your middle schooler and equip them with the knowledge and skills they need to stay safe.

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Here are some tips from Choices Mentoring Initiative (CMi) to help you approach this topic effectively.

 

1. Pick a time when both you and your child are relaxed and attentive.

2. Encourage open dialogue and assure your middle schoolers that they can come to you with any concerns or questions.

3. Tailor your discussion to your child's age and maturity level without overwhelming or scaring them and be sensitive to their emotional readiness.

4. Discuss various aspects of personal safety, including physical safety, online safety, emotional well-being, bullying, cyberbullying, peer pressure, and self-defense.

5. Please help your child understand the importance of trusting their instincts and recognizing potential danger. Please encourage them to listen to their gut feelings and act accordingly.

6. Empower your child by teaching them to set personal boundaries and role-play scenarios to help them practice assertive responses.

7. Discuss online safety.

8. Discuss what to do in emergencies and how to seek help from trusted adults.

9. Assure them that you will support and help them navigate any challenging situations.

 

Regularly reinforce the message: Personal safety is an ongoing conversation. Periodically check in with your child, review safety tips, and address any new concerns or issues.