Every parent’s number one priority is to keep their children safe. We teach our kids to never talk to strangers and stay close by when out in public. Yet as much as we try to keep them safe, we always have to consider that there are millions out there who we do not trust. Because of this, we want to make sure that in the worst case scenario our kids know what to do. The key to being prepared is educating them beforehand. Being prepared prevents you from being a victim.
READ ON FOR SOME GREAT SELF-DEFENSE TIPS TO TEACH YOUR CHILD TODAY.
RECOGNIZE SOMETHING IS WRONG
The first step in getting out of trouble is to recognize there is trouble in the first place. It is necessary that children understand that there are good and bad people in this world. They will then be able to understand that staying away from the bad people is what they are supposed to do. Teach them that once trouble is detected, they want to immediately head to a safe area. This could be as easy as crossing to the other side of the street.
The best way to recognize something is wrong is to stay aware of your surroundings. Always check to ensure that no one is following you by occasionally looking behind. Work with your child to get him or her used to using eye contact. Attackers often avoid going for victims who have obviously seen them, as it takes away the element of surprise.
FLIGHT, NOT FIGHT
Unless your child is involved in martial arts and feels confident in putting up a fight, it is a good idea to teach them to run away the moment they sense something is wrong. It is ideal to leave the situation before it escalates. This will often allow them to avoid many uncomfortable circumstances.
MAKE A SCENE
If your child does find himself or herself in a dangerous situation, it is necessary to make it obvious to anyone who is around. Screaming “Help!” is an easy tip that any child can remember. If they are being grabbed, yelling “You are not my mom/dad!” is another phrase that will easily garner attention. The key here is to call as much attention to the situation as possible. Attackers are searching for easy victims and often think children provide that.
EYE THE EXIT
Teach your child that he or she should always know where the closest exit is. Get them used to this habit by asking them where the exits are when entering a new restaurant, store or mall. Furthermore, if help is needed, guide them to ask another mother. Teach them that other moms are the best option for help if theirs is not there. Moms with children are generally safer options for your child to seek assistance from.
PREPARE THEM
The best way to avoid being a victim is to be prepared. Besides teaching your child these tips, enroll them in a self-defense class. Sports like jiu jitsu, krav maga and akido are all excellent martial arts that teach kids self-defense. Besides offering your child an exercise outlet, these sports teach your child discipline and gives them the confidence needed to defend themselves. For your daughters, the best thing you can do for them is to teach them to feel confident defending themselves.
The world can be a scary place. Making sure that your child feels safe and confident when you are not around is essential. Check out our great selection of self-defense accessories available at defensewarehouse.com to prepare you and your child from any uncomfortable situations.
