Talkin’ Toddlers…Keeping Them Safe & Sound
Author: Jeannie Fleming-Gifford
All of sudden, your baby is becoming a little person. The world has plenty for them to explore. Of course, not all of these explorations are ones you welcome. Always into something, toddlers may have "bumps" in the road that warrant an interaction with an unfamiliar person such as a firefighter, police officer, or emergency technician.
How do you appropriately prepare and introduce your toddler to the possibilities of these situations?
First, educate with facts, not fear. When telling children about risks in life and the roles of individuals (i.e. police officers), keep it safe and use appropriate words for a young child. For instance, you may want to define the role of a police officer as someone who helps people versus "protects us from bad guys."
Next, take time to introduce the roles of emergency technicians, etc. when the opportunity presents itself. Your curious toddler may wonder where an ambulance is going. They may ask what the sounds of a siren are. They may see a firefighter in the community. As these all may be new experiences, take time to describe what they are hearing and seeing. If they show fear at sounds or new people, provide support and reassurance. This is especially important when coming into close contact with a firefighter, police officer, or emergency technician who may be in uniform and in close proximity to your child. Remember, this individual is a "stranger" to your child. Your child may show signs of anxiety. Additionally, the uniform a person wears may also be new to your child. This is especially true of the uniform and equipment a firefighter may wear. If possible, observe from a distance. Talk with your child. Describe what they are seeing and inquire how they are feeling. Don't move closer if you have an option and your child is showing fear. Over time, your child will gain confidence and understanding through seeing these individuals and the work they are a part of.
A good way to reinforce the positive work that these professionals do is through children's books. A visit to your local library is sure to yield a few good reads that will not only educate, but also entertain.
In tandem to introducing your child to these professionals, it is a good time to talk with your child about what they should do if or when they may be in a position where they need help. This may include situations like: they cannot find you or your partner, they see or smell something that they are unsure of, or they are hurt. Keep the conversation simple and positive. Again, educate through facts, not fear.
Finally, take the time to show your child the basics of what to do within the home if they need help. Even the youngest child can be successful at identifying the numbers 9-1-1. Young children also need to be reminded that if they do need help, there is a community of support that will help them. This will include not only mom and dad, but also people such as firefighters, policeman, and emergency technicians.
By working together with those professionals in your community, you can keep your child safe and sound.
