Do your children know how to get out of a scary situation? Do they understand how to ask for your help when it’s embarrassing to ask? Would your child ever stay in a dangerous situation because they didn’t know of a discreet way to leave? Code words can help!
Create a family password for emergencies, such as sending another adult to pick kids up your child or asking your child to open your home’s door. Teach your child to ask for the code word when approached by someone they do not know. If the person can’t provide the special word, the child then knows to go for help.
You can also give them a code word that they can use when they are feeling unsafe. This can be used at home, when there are guests in the house or when they are on a play date or a sleepover.
The most important thing to remember here is to raise their awareness and teach them to be cautious. A family password will help children to learn that they can alleviate fear and escape from a potentially dangerous situation.