5 Things You Should Do As a Parent

1.     Communicate: open, honest and consistent communication with your child is priority. This is where everything starts, with you educating them, and them having a safe space to share. Make them feel comfortable, able to address their concerns in a non-judgmental way. Point out that they can come to you with any problems, and that you are there for them to listen.

2.     Teach kids boundaries and consent: this is something that can be discussed quite early on! Do not forget that predators often target very young children, so starting this conversation as soon as possible is key. Teach them about boundaries as they pertain to their body and physical contact, as well as boundaries in other places, such as online. Explain that it is okay to say ‘no’ when a situation asks for it, if they feel that something is not right, or not comfortable, and that it is okay to shout when they feel threatened. Make sure that you reinforce this concept often, and explain that boundaries do not only apply to strangers, but also to people in their close circle.

3.     Monitor child’s surroundings and behaviour: Pay attention with who your kids interact with, both in real life and online. Understand who they talk to, and spend their time with, watching their behaviour and emotional state. When they feel upset, or their behaviour changes over time, try and find out what made them alter their emotional state. Unexplained changes in behaviour may be red flags that something alarming is going on.

4.     Be a great role model: Kids learn from observation, so you being a good role model for them will teach them early on, what behaviours are healthy. This may include showing respect, kindness, and open communication. They also need to learn from you what it means to be able to uphold boundaries and remain assertive, so that they don't become people pleasers afraid of expressing their opinions, wants and wishes.

5.     Teach them safety strategies and martial arts: teach kids about potential scenarios they can find themselves in and what to do when those situations occur. These strategies can range from knowing how to call for help, responding to bullies or strangers, and physical self-defence.

The best physical strategies they can learn will be in martial arts/self-defence training, that will give them power and confidence beyond just verbal skills. Sign them up to Judo, Jiu-Jitsu, or any form of combat sports available in your area to empower them inside and out.