Having an open discussion with your child about school safety is crucial for their peace of mind and preparedness. Here’s how you can approach this conversation:
Reassure Them About Safety
Emphasize Safety: Start by affirming that schools are designed to be safe places for learning and growth. Explain that the school has plans and procedures to ensure their safety.
Review Safety Plans: Go over the school’s safety policies with your child, so they know what to expect during drills and understand that these measures are there to protect them.
Discuss Drills and Procedures
Explain the Purpose: Discuss the different types of drills (e.g., weather drills, lockdown drills) and why they are necessary. Reassure your child that these drills help everyone know what to do in case of an emergency.
Address Anxiety: Acknowledge any fears or anxieties they might have about these drills. Reassure them that the drills are practiced regularly to help keep everyone safe.
Encourage Communication
Importance of Reporting: Stress the importance of speaking up if they notice anything unusual or if they feel uncomfortable. Clarify the difference between “telling” and “tattling”—emphasize that reporting is about safety, not causing trouble.
Identify Trusted Adults: Help your child identify at least one adult at school they feel comfortable talking to. This could be a teacher, school counselor, or school nurse.
Create a Safety Plan Together
Role Play Scenarios: Practice what to do in different emergency situations. Role-playing can help them feel more prepared and less anxious.
Safety Skills: Teach your child basic safety skills, such as how to stay calm, listen carefully to instructions, and follow safety procedures.
Encourage Open Dialogue
Regular Check-Ins: Make it a habit to check in with your child about how they feel about school safety and any concerns they might have.
Open Door Policy: Ensure they know they can talk to you about anything that worries them, anytime.
Additional Resources
For further information and resources on school safety, you might find these links helpful:
Ohio Department of Education – Provides resources and guidelines for school safety.
Ohio School Boards Association – Offers insights and updates on school safety policies.
School Security – Provides comprehensive information on school safety measures and best practices.
