In my childcare center, children embark on their educational journey from a tender age, and as a co-parent, I take my role seriously, serving as their soft landing, teacher, and emotional guide. Ensuring their safety and well-being has always been my utmost priority.
While imparting essential skills like writing their names and recognizing colors remains integral, our curriculum extends to teaching them crucial life lessons. This includes instructing them on what to do if they get separated from their parents, addressing concepts like “Stranger Danger,” and understanding the importance of personal space. From teaching them to dial 911 in emergencies to establishing secret passwords for safe pickups, learning home phone numbers, and addresses, these seemingly small lessons are vital for their overall health and safety.
Adapting to the changing times, teaching these safety techniques has evolved. One significant shift was obtaining permission to teach children their parents’ cell phone numbers, a task that proved challenging due to privacy concerns raised by some parents. Despite the hurdles, I remain committed to ensuring our children’s safety by incorporating these essential details.
Moreover, addressing personal space has become more nuanced. While children once understood personal space as the area from their fingertips to their shoulders, we now empower them to express their comfort levels with physical affection. This approach extends to sensitive situations, such as assisting in the bathroom, where I respect their boundaries entirely. Upholding their right to establish boundaries fosters their self-advocacy, giving them a voice and building trust in their environment when their boundaries are respected.
Teaching safety and social skills to young children has evolved, but the importance has remained steadfast. Respecting the boundaries they set and teaching them to respect ours not only instills mutual respect but also builds trust, creating a nurturing and empowering learning environment.