Safety Tips for Kids & Families ~
“Changing times require that children be better prepared for an emergency,” says Debra Holtzman, an internationally recognized child safety and health expert and the author of the new book, The Safe Baby (Sentient Publications, or go to her website www.thesafetyexpert.com
Ms. Hotzman has many helpful tips about keeping our children - and our families - safe.
Does your family have a family password? You should. Do you make sure your child walks home from school with a buddy and not go through solitary paths in the woods?
Make sure you don’t have your child’s name on the outside of their backpack or clothing. Have you taught your children the tricks abductors use (help me find my puppy, for example) Do you make sure they know to walk facing traffic?
Yes, I know some of these are basic tips but please remind your children of these things - often. Children forget easily. Ms. Holtzman was quick to say this is not about fear - it is about precaution and being in charge. Most likely nothing will ever happen, but just in case it is calming to know your child is prepared and aware.
Some useful items to have in your child’s backpack on this first week of school:
1. An emergency contact list.
2. A Child ID Card.
3. A small Flashlight or Penlight. To be used for power outages. Make sure to check batteries monthly.
4. A Whistle. If your child is in danger, he/she can blow the whistle to attract attention.
5. A Fully-Charged Cell Phone or Walkie-Talkie.
6. Small bottled water and snack. If your child gets stuck inside in a building or bus he/she will have a snack handy.
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SHOW ON STEPFAMILIES ~ Last month I did a show on stepfamilies and I had an overwhelming response. So I did another show dealing with stepfamily issues Wednesday July 12th, with Elissa Gross, a therapist who deals with stepfamilies, and is also a stepparent.
I hope you had a chance to listen and that you found some solace, answers and wisdom that can help you cope with any stepfamily issues you might be dealing with in your own life.
Some good tips to follow are:
Never take it personally
- Go slow in establishing relationships, rules and new traditions.
- Work hard to make your marriage strong - it helps both spouses deal with any difficult situations that may arise.
Go to www.stepfamilies.com to learn more and get in touch with Elissa Gross or other therapists to consult with.
~ And Don’t Forget to empower your Kids