T recently took a self-defense class for kids. In classic T fashion, he had a rollicking good time. But more importantly, he learned some practical techniques to fend off bullies and strangers. With regular practice via role-playing at home, we hope that he will be well prepared for the statistically-unlikely-yet-still-possible icky situation and will know exactly what to do to get out of it safely.
Doesn’t get any scarier than this. How have you handled the issue of “stranger danger” with your child?
I just realized that I’ve written two posts within the last few weeks that allude to Stranger Danger. First was in my post about kids getting lost, and then again in my post about kids playing without adult supervision. Apparently, I’ve got it on the brain. In fact, I’ve been thinking about this very topic for a couple of years now, but I haven’t really broached the issue of strangers with my son until recently. I just thought he was too young before. I didn’t want to mar his innocence. I didn’t want to scare him too much or make him believe that the world was full of scary people wanting to snatch him up and take him away.
So I waited until now. I still wonder if it was a bit premature (he is almost 6), but I have no regrets about encouraging him to become more aware.
