Working parents - in this age we live today means the majority of American families - share the anxiety, frustration, and even fear involved in leaving children "on their own" when school lets out, when child care arrangements with neighbors and relatives break down, or when there are simply no other alternatives.
There are some things we can do and must do as parents, to protect the safety of our children in the conditions noted above.
First of all and most importantly is that we make sure our children are ready to care for themselves. This is very important and I cannot stress it enough. If a child is not ready to care for him or herself, leaving them home alone could be a catastrophe and at best is leaving an invitation for trouble.
As parents we must take the time necessary to instruct our children basic safety rules. Not only must we teach them, but we must also make sure to the best of our ability that we know the child understands the rules and is able and willing to follow them.
As parents we must make it a point to know where are kids are, what they are doing, and with whom they are doing it with.
The question is, how do we know when our children are ready to bear such a responsibility? A good test for this would be that our children can......
1. Be trusted to go directly home after school.
2. Easily use the telephone, locks , and kitchen appliances.
3. Follow rules and instruction well.
4. Handle unanticipated situations without panicking.
5. Stay alone without being afraid.
Take enough time to talk things over with your child. Listen to their concerns and ideas. Work out rules on having friends over when no one else is home, household chores, homework and television. Keep in mind that staying home alone and following the rules can build up a child's self esteem, good sense of responsibility, and practical skills.
The following list is of the things a parent or guardian should teach their "home alone" children.
1. How to call 9-1-1 or your area's emergency number and calling the operator.
2. The proper way to give directions to your house in case of an emergency.
3. To check in with you or your neighbor immediately upon arriving home.
4. To never accept gifts or rides from people they do not know well and that you do not approve of.
5. How to use the door, windows, locks and any alarm system if you have one.
6. To never let anyone into the home without asking your permission.
7. To never under any circumstances allow a caller at the door or on the phone know they are alone.
8. To carry a house key with them in a safe place on their person...do not leave it under a mat or on a ledge outside the house.
9. How to escape the house in case of a fire.
10. To not go into the home if things just don't look right; things such as a broken window, a ripped screen or an open door.
11. To let you know about anything that frightens them or makes them feel uncomfortable.
If you,as a parent would follow these recommendations, both you and your child would experience less fear and anxiety of having your child home alone after school while you are still at work.
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Bill Wallmuller supports the "war on crime". You can learn more about defensive technology at the Personal Defense Technology Website: www.personal-defense-technology.com
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