Child Safety Pledge https://childsafetypledge.org/ Pledge and Protect Thu, 06 Apr 2023 17:34:19 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 How You Can Be an Ally to LGBTQ+ Youth https://childsafetypledge.org/blog/how-you-can-be-an-ally-to-lgbtq-youth/ Wed, 05 Apr 2023 16:07:33 +0000 https://childsafetypledge.org/?p=1274 Every child deserves to live in a welcoming, loving world. However, LGBTQ+ youth are faced with many adversities today. I bet you’re wondering, “How can I make them feel welcomed and loved?” That’s where being an ally comes in.  To be an ally to the LGBTQ+ community, we first must understand what it means to be an ally. An ally is someone who supports and advocates for LGBTQ+ people. Being a good ally means showing up for others through actions, awareness, and empathy. When it comes to being an ally to the LGBTQ+ community, there are a few key things to keep in mind.  Educate Yourself About the LGBTQ+ Community If you have children or other loved ones who are a part of the LGBTQ community, being supportive alone can have a positive impact on their mental health. Yet, it takes more than just support. Educating yourself goes a long way.  Taking time to learn about the issues and people of the LGBTQ community can help them because often they are forced to educate others about their identities and lived experiences. This can bear mental health burdens on LGBTQ+ youth as they feel responsible for other’s understanding of their community […]

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Every child deserves to live in a welcoming, loving world. However, LGBTQ+ youth are faced with many adversities today. I bet you’re wondering, “How can I make them feel welcomed and loved?” That’s where being an ally comes in. 

To be an ally to the LGBTQ+ community, we first must understand what it means to be an ally. An ally is someone who supports and advocates for LGBTQ+ people. Being a good ally means showing up for others through actions, awareness, and empathy. When it comes to being an ally to the LGBTQ+ community, there are a few key things to keep in mind. 

Educate Yourself About the LGBTQ+ Community

If you have children or other loved ones who are a part of the LGBTQ community, being supportive alone can have a positive impact on their mental health. Yet, it takes more than just support. Educating yourself goes a long way. 

Taking time to learn about the issues and people of the LGBTQ community can help them because often they are forced to educate others about their identities and lived experiences. This can bear mental health burdens on LGBTQ+ youth as they feel responsible for other’s understanding of their community and adversities.  

It’s okay if you’re not an expert on all things LGBTQ+. It takes time to learn and understand how to be an ally. In addition to committing yourself to learning about the issues and people of the LGBTQ community, you can start by listening without judgment, practicing empathy, and seeking resources from organizations that support the LGBTQ community. 

Speak Up in Your Community  

If we want our kids to be safe, we must speak up. The LGBTQ+ community often deals with hate speech or people using incorrect pronouns. Even seemingly casual comments, such as “that’s so gay”, or name-calling, can be devastating to LGBTQ+ people. These actions can create an environment of bias and prolong harmful stereotypes. Don’t tolerate hurtful speech or shameful comments. When we stay silent, we are only causing more harm. If you have the courage to stand up and be a voice for LGBTQ+ people, others around you may as well.  

Speaking up for LGBTQ people isn’t just about reacting to negative comments from others. You can also spread positive messages that encourage those around you to think differently. Talking positively about LGBTQ+ people you know and sharing what you admire about them is inspiring to LGBTQ youth. When we speak positively about the LGBTQ+ community, we are actively supporting them.  

Keep Up the Good Work 

If you’re reading this, you have already taken the first steps of being an ally. Being an active ally is an ongoing journey, so it’s important to acknowledge there are always things to learn and ways to improve. You’re not alone; There are many people who are new to learning how to be an ally for the LGBTQ+ community. As adults, however, it is our job to keep children safe.  

I encourage you to continue educating yourself on LBGTQ+ issues and people, speaking up for them, and continue striving to be a great ally. By being an advocate of LGBTQ+ people, you are leading by example.   

Favorite Resources for LGBTQ+: 

The Trevor Project | For Young LGBTQ Lives 

LGBT Foundation – Home 

Defining LGBTQIA+ (gaycenter.org) 

Resources – Human Rights Campaign (hrc.org) 

Find more safety tips and resources like this article by visiting our Learning Hub.

 

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The Importance of Building Resilience in Your Child https://childsafetypledge.org/blog/the-importance-of-building-resilience-in-your-child/ Mon, 20 Mar 2023 20:58:17 +0000 https://childsafetypledge.org/?p=1264 Do you want your child to be independent, a problem solver, and confident in their own abilities? We all do! Building resilience in your child is beneficial to their growth and development because it helps them learn to cope with life’s difficulties, setbacks, and natural changes in a healthy way. Resilience promotes better mental health and overall well-being. According to Child Trends, black non-Hispanic children experience adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) at a higher rate than other races. ACEs, also called toxic stress, can include any stressful life event which has the potential to be traumatic, including things like neglect, abuse, and homelessness. Therefore, resilience is more than just important for these children—it may even be crucial to their wellbeing and longevity. Teaching your child, the skills they need to practice resilience can help them through these challenging situations, allowing them to come out better on the other side. 8 Ways to Help Your Child Build Resilience With all this in mind, you’re probably wondering where to even begin. How can you teach your child such a complex topic without overwhelming them? Luckily, the answer isn’t all that complicated. Below are a few simple yet effective ways you can instill a […]

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Do you want your child to be independent, a problem solver, and confident in their own abilities? We all do!

Building resilience in your child is beneficial to their growth and development because it helps them learn to cope with life’s difficulties, setbacks, and natural changes in a healthy way. Resilience promotes better mental health and overall well-being.

According to Child Trends, black non-Hispanic children experience adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) at a higher rate than other races. ACEs, also called toxic stress, can include any stressful life event which has the potential to be traumatic, including things like neglect, abuse, and homelessness.

Therefore, resilience is more than just important for these children—it may even be crucial to their wellbeing and longevity. Teaching your child, the skills they need to practice resilience can help them through these challenging situations, allowing them to come out better on the other side.

8 Ways to Help Your Child Build Resilience

With all this in mind, you’re probably wondering where to even begin. How can you teach your child such a complex topic without overwhelming them?

Luckily, the answer isn’t all that complicated. Below are a few simple yet effective ways you can instill a sense of resilience in your child to ensure they are better prepared to deal with the challenges of the world.

1. Encourage problem solving and self-reflection

Encourage your child to think of different ways to approach problems and work through difficult situations. They should understand the importance of taking responsibility for their actions without letting others take advantage.

2. Teach them to be mindful

Mindfulness activities can help your child learn to recognize and manage their own emotions. Emotional regulation will help them with their mental wellbeing and future relationships.

3. Model resilience

Be a role model for your child. Show them how you persevere in the face of adversity and why it’s important to keep trying.

4. Model and encourage a positive attitude

Help your child recognize the positive in any given situation by practicing this concept in your own life. Positivity goes a long way.

5. Teach assertiveness

Teach your child to express their needs and desires in a positive way. Assertiveness is an essential skill for building resilience, especially in the face of racism and prejudice.

6. Show empathy and provide comfort

Let your child know that it’s ok to feel emotions, and that you are there to listen and provide comfort. Everyone deserves empathy—even children. This small gesture can make a huge difference in a growing child’s mind.

7. Encourage physical activity

Exercise can help children develop physical and mental resilience. It’s good for the body and the mind.

8. Foster a sense of community

Encourage children to build meaningful relationships with others by helping them cultivate these relationships. Try to practice this in your own life in front of your family, and the practice will come naturally for them.

Conclusion

Although building resilience sounds like a big, scary skill to try to teach (and maybe learn!), it really isn’t as difficult as it sounds. Small changes to your daily habits are easy ways to cultivate a positive mindset and build resilience. And your children will appreciate you passing this knowledge and skillset to them.

For more resources visit our Learning Hub or watching our Teaching Moments 

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When Your Child is Hurting | Seeking Mental Health Support https://childsafetypledge.org/blog/when-your-child-is-hurting/ Wed, 15 Mar 2023 16:41:38 +0000 https://childsafetypledge.org/?p=1261 As a parent, there is nothing more painful than when your child is hurting. When our kids are little, they look to us to “kiss the boo-boo” and “make it all better”. But what happens when we can’t? When the hurt is too big, the situation too serious, or the circumstances too beyond our control?  Many of us have our own stories of hurting in childhood. We may have been raised in homes where when we were hurt, we were told not to talk about it or to “suck it up”. Perhaps we may even have believed lies, like that we shouldn’t be upset about it, or that it was our fault. Adults who never addressed childhood hurts often struggle with managing difficult feelings, building healthy relationships, keeping commitments, various addiction issues, and/or maintaining their physical health. We can do better for our kids. We can do better by seeking support for our kids when they need it. Mental health treatment may seem a foreign or a Western concept to some. We may feel uncomfortable with the idea. We may worry that seeking help signifies we are bad parents or have done something wrong.  However, when your kid is struggling […]

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As a parent, there is nothing more painful than when your child is hurting. When our kids are little, they look to us to “kiss the boo-boo” and “make it all better”. But what happens when we can’t? When the hurt is too big, the situation too serious, or the circumstances too beyond our control? 

Many of us have our own stories of hurting in childhood. We may have been raised in homes where when we were hurt, we were told not to talk about it or to “suck it up”. Perhaps we may even have believed lies, like that we shouldn’t be upset about it, or that it was our fault. Adults who never addressed childhood hurts often struggle with managing difficult feelings, building healthy relationships, keeping commitments, various addiction issues, and/or maintaining their physical health.

We can do better for our kids. We can do better by seeking support for our kids when they need it.

Mental health treatment may seem a foreign or a Western concept to some. We may feel uncomfortable with the idea. We may worry that seeking help signifies we are bad parents or have done something wrong. 

However, when your kid is struggling physically, you take them to the doctor, right? When a kid is struggling emotionally, we need to have that same response. Mental health is equally as important.

You may want to consider mental health treatment for your child if… 

  • You notice a big change in their mood or behavior; 
  • They’re having behavioral, social or academic difficulties in school, especially if that’s new for them; 
  • They’re sleeping or eating too much or not enough; 
  • They’re acting out, running away from home, or being aggressive; 
  • They’re depressed, isolating, self-harming, or shutting down; 
  • They’ve made any expression verbal or otherwise of thinking about harming themself or others. 

A pediatrician might be a good place to start, especially if you need a referral. Here are a few definitions of the different types of helpers available: 

  • A therapist, sometimes called a counselor or clinician, has a master’s degree in psychology, counseling, or social work, and engages a child through talk, play, art, and other interventions. They cannot prescribe medication. 
  • A psychologist, or PhD, has a doctoral degree in psychology and does work similar to a therapist, can also do psychological and developmental testing. They cannot prescribe medication. 
  • A psychiatrist has been to medical school and is a MD. Primarily responsible for medication prescription and management. 

Mental illness and suicide rates among kids and teens are on the rise all over the country. Let’s work together to protect our kids from long-term suffering by providing them with the support they need, when they need it.

For help finding a provider, see: Find a Child Therapist, Child Psychologist, Child Counselor – Psychology Today 

For emergency support, call: 988 Crisis Line

Find more safety tips and resources like this article on Mental Health by visiting our Learning Hub.

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Parents Chat | Using Children’s Books to Talk About Tough Topics https://childsafetypledge.org/blog/parents-chat-childrens-books/ Thu, 02 Mar 2023 22:36:15 +0000 https://childsafetypledge.org/?p=1252 Exciting news…We are teaming up with parents and advocates to discuss important topics related to child safety and well-being during our very own Parents Chat! You’re invited to join us on March 8 for “Using Children’s Books to Talk About Tough Topics” with leading advocates, authors, and educators. The event is free, but we encourage you to register in advance!   Check out the children’s books that we will feature:                                         You will hear from: Kimberly King @toughtopicsmom Krystaelynne Sanders Diggs @allthingsdiggs Kaidalyn Rosario @kaidalynrosario Kimberly Perry @westandguard Meghan Backofen Eliza Sultan   The webinar starts at 7 p.m. EST via Zoom. Don’t forget to register here! 

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Exciting news…We are teaming up with parents and advocates to discuss important topics related to child safety and well-being during our very own Parents Chat!

You’re invited to join us on March 8 for “Using Children’s Books to Talk About Tough Topics” with leading advocates, authors, and educators. The event is free, but we encourage you to register in advance!

 

Check out the children’s books that we will feature:

 

by Kimberly King (Author), Zack King (Author), Sue Rama (Illustrator)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

by Meghan Hurley Backofen LCSW (Author), FINAO Agency (Illustrator)

by Kimberly Perry (Author)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

by Krystaelynne Sanders Diggs (Author), Ananta Mohanta (Illustrator)

You will hear from:

Kimberly King @toughtopicsmom
Krystaelynne Sanders Diggs @allthingsdiggs
Kaidalyn Rosario @kaidalynrosario
Kimberly Perry @westandguard
Meghan Backofen
Eliza Sultan

 

The webinar starts at 7 p.m. EST via Zoom. Don’t forget to register here

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Facing the Stigma in Hispanic Communities of Mental Health Issues https://childsafetypledge.org/blog/facing-the-stigma-in-hispanic-communities-of-mental-health-issues/ Thu, 09 Feb 2023 13:59:43 +0000 https://childsafetypledge.org/?p=1195 Fourth grader Josefina had historically been a model student. When she began falling behind in class, zoning out, isolating from her peers, and forgetting her homework, her teacher brought her to me for an evaluation.   Josefina clearly presented as a depressed child. She reported difficulties sleeping, difficulties focusing, not finding enjoyment in things she used to like, and feeling little hope about the future. She had poor eye contact and a subdued demeanor.  After meeting with Josefina’s mother, I found out that Josefina had changed after being sexually assaulted by a neighbor. The family hadn’t called the police because they were undocumented and feared being deported. In fact, they hadn’t told anyone out of shame around what had happened. When I offered mental health support for Josefina, her mother asked, “But isn’t it better if she just forgets about it?”  In response, I pointed out the signs that her teacher and I had noticed. Left unsupported, I argued, Josefina’s mental health issues could worsen, even to serious consequences.  Stories like Josefina’s are not uncommon. There are many reasons why families might not seek support for mental health issues. Reasons like:  Fear or mistrust of law enforcement, Immigrations, or social […]

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Fourth grader Josefina had historically been a model student. When she began falling behind in class, zoning out, isolating from her peers, and forgetting her homework, her teacher brought her to me for an evaluation.  

Josefina clearly presented as a depressed child. She reported difficulties sleeping, difficulties focusing, not finding enjoyment in things she used to like, and feeling little hope about the future. She had poor eye contact and a subdued demeanor. 

After meeting with Josefina’s mother, I found out that Josefina had changed after being sexually assaulted by a neighbor. The family hadn’t called the police because they were undocumented and feared being deported. In fact, they hadn’t told anyone out of shame around what had happened. When I offered mental health support for Josefina, her mother asked, “But isn’t it better if she just forgets about it?” 

In response, I pointed out the signs that her teacher and I had noticed. Left unsupported, I argued, Josefina’s mental health issues could worsen, even to serious consequences. 

Stories like Josefina’s are not uncommon. There are many reasons why families might not seek support for mental health issues. Reasons like: 

  • Fear or mistrust of law enforcement, Immigrations, or social services 
  • Guilt, shame, or embarrassment 
  • Fear of being labeled “crazy” – or worse 
  • Reluctance to air one’s laundry in public 

Yet what we know is that serious mental illnesses are on the rise within Hispanic communities in the US – especially among children. We also know that individuals suffering from mental illness, such as depression, post-traumatic stress, or anxiety, are more likely to binge drink or use illegal substances. And they are significantly more likely to attempt or die by suicide. 

Talking about mental health is hard – but struggling in silence is harder. If you are ready to break down the stigma around mental health, consider these steps: 

  1. Open the conversation. Ask your children questions like: How are you feeling about this situation? What brought you joy today? What was a struggle? Would you like to talk about it?  
  2. Set an example for your children by talking about your feelings. Share the supports or tools you use to manage difficult emotions like frustration and anger. 
  3. Provide an outlet for your children to express and process emotions. This could be something active like sports, or something quiet like music, meditation/prayer, or art.  
  4. If you notice a change in your child’s behavior, mood, or functioning ask about it. Be curious and supportive. 
  5. If you or your child are struggling, seek help from professionals as soon as you can. If you don’t know where to go, reach out to your pediatrician, the counselor at your child’s school, or one of the resources below.  

By breaking down barriers, together we can build healthier, more resilient children and communities, leading to a brighter tomorrow. 

Mental Health in Hispanic Communities – Resources for You:

To find a culturally appropriate therapist: www.therapyforlatinx.com 

For more information on mental health: Latinx/Hispanic Communities: Información y Materiales de Salud Mental en Español | Mental Health America (mhanational.org) 

Find more safety tips and resources like this article on Mental Health in Hispanic Communities by visiting our Learning Hub and sorting the content category to “Hispanic Community.” 

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Family Code of Conduct – How to Create Your Own https://childsafetypledge.org/blog/family-code-of-conduct-how-to-create-your-own/ Wed, 18 Jan 2023 18:38:41 +0000 https://childsafetypledge.org/?p=1184 It’s a new year – time to update your family code of conduct!  A family code of conduct is a pre-determined set of values around bodies and boundaries that can go a long way toward protecting your kids from sexual abuse. It can help kids understand what acceptable and unacceptable behavior is, help them make informed decisions, and ultimately avoid dangerous situations.   In order for you to help you figure out what those pre-determined values are, we have created a Family Code of Conduct for you to fill out – as a family. This should be a living, breathing document that you should constantly go back to and review. Some boundaries will need to change or you may need to add new guidelines as your family grows.   You’ll find in our sample Family Code of Conduct, we start with talking about things like how you treat others. Then we help you expand into situations that might prove tricky for kids, or for you. Things like playdates or hanging out with friends, how you handle when others want to take photos of your children AND share them on social media, guidelines for sleepovers, babysitter boundaries and ground rules, internet usage […]

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It’s a new year – time to update your family code of conduct! 

A family code of conduct is a pre-determined set of values around bodies and boundaries that can go a long way toward protecting your kids from sexual abuse. It can help kids understand what acceptable and unacceptable behavior is, help them make informed decisions, and ultimately avoid dangerous situations.  

In order for you to help you figure out what those pre-determined values are, we have created a Family Code of Conduct for you to fill out – as a family. This should be a living, breathing document that you should constantly go back to and review. Some boundaries will need to change or you may need to add new guidelines as your family grows.  

You’ll find in our sample Family Code of Conduct, we start with talking about things like how you treat others. Then we help you expand into situations that might prove tricky for kids, or for you. Things like playdates or hanging out with friends, how you handle when others want to take photos of your children AND share them on social media, guidelines for sleepovers, babysitter boundaries and ground rules, internet usage and safety in your home and while at a friends house and even how are you evaluating after-school programs, summer camps and even lessons to make sure your kids are safe. 

Anticipating these situations and talking through them with your children can make you all feel safer. They will have a better understanding of why your family values are important and you will find you won’t have to say “because I told you so.” 

Pro Tip: Make it a team project – ask your kids what they think should be included! 

For more information on how to start your own family code of conduct, view this sample from Darkness to Light and read their blog post here.

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Our Winter Safety Mini-Guide, Outdoors https://childsafetypledge.org/blog/our-winter-safety-mini-guide-outdoors/ Thu, 12 Jan 2023 15:45:58 +0000 https://childsafetypledge.org/?p=1180 Let’s face it, we are not hibernating animals and although we might like to stay indoors during the winter months, some of us do not mind the cold and snow. In order to enjoy the colder temperatures safely, be sure to follow these outdoor winter guide tips. We all want to keep our kids safe – no matter the weather.  Dressing for the Snow  Venturing out into the snow means dressing for the occasion. Dress your children in plenty of warm layers (but not too restricting) and be sure to cover their heads and hands. If possible, make the last layer a waterproof layer and make sure they have proper boots or footwear that will not only keep them warm but prevent them from slipping on ice.  Playing in the Snow  Depending on what activities your children are most interested in (snowboarding, skiing, ice skating, sledding, building a snowman, or a good old fashioned snow ball fight) make sure they have proper gear. This might mean helmets, snow pants, special boots or pads.  Pro Tip: Have them come in from the cold from time to time to warm up. You both might dread getting undressed and dressed again in all […]

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Let’s face it, we are not hibernating animals and although we might like to stay indoors during the winter months, some of us do not mind the cold and snow.

In order to enjoy the colder temperatures safely, be sure to follow these outdoor winter guide tips. We all want to keep our kids safe – no matter the weather. 

Dressing for the Snow 

Venturing out into the snow means dressing for the occasion. Dress your children in plenty of warm layers (but not too restricting) and be sure to cover their heads and hands. If possible, make the last layer a waterproof layer and make sure they have proper boots or footwear that will not only keep them warm but prevent them from slipping on ice. 

Playing in the Snow 

Depending on what activities your children are most interested in (snowboarding, skiing, ice skating, sledding, building a snowman, or a good old fashioned snow ball fight) make sure they have proper gear. This might mean helmets, snow pants, special boots or pads. 

Pro Tip: Have them come in from the cold from time to time to warm up. You both might dread getting undressed and dressed again in all that gear, but you want to prevent hypothermia and frostbite. 

Ice 

Ice can be beautiful when looking at it from the comfort of your home. Icicles are pretty cool, in fact and what kid doesn’t love to slide across a sheet of ice. But ice can be very dangerous. If you have icicles hanging from your roof, trees or other objects, keep children away from them. Once the sun hits them, they begin to melt and can fall. Be cautious of trying to knock them down yourself, too. 

If you have icy sidewalks, driveways, or bodies of water near you – use caution, too. Ice melt, sand or even cat litter can help provide traction and keep you and your kids from slipping. If you are near water, be absolutely sure that the water would be frozen before venturing out on it. That means many days of below freezing temperatures so that ice has formed deeper than just the surface layer. 

Frostbite 

According to WebMD, frostbite is “when exposure to freezing temperatures damages areas of your skin and the tissues underneath. It’s a treatable but potentially serious condition.” We can help prevent frostbite in our children by making sure that all exposed skin is covered when they go out to play in cold temperatures (remember; there doesn’t have to be snow on the ground). Make sure they have on gloves, hats that cover their ears, coats and pants that are long enough, and if necessary, a scarf to help cover their neck and cheeks. We can also help prevent frostbite by having them come in to take breaks and check those most vulnerable areas (hands, fingers, ears, toes, face). And of course, don’t be afraid to say it’s too cold and dangerous to go outside. Sometimes the temperatures are just not safe. Your local weather service will provide you with warnings on when temperatures are at a dangerous level. 

Sunburn 

Yes – even in the wintertime your skin can get sunburned. Be sure to put sunscreen on your children before they go out to play. It is the sun that we are concerned about, not the heat from the sun that can cause the burn. 

Remember to share these tips with all of those that will be around children. The more of us doing our part to keep kids safe, the better!

For more information on keeping your children safe during the winter months, read our Winter Safety Mini-Guide, At Home edition.

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Our Winter Safety Mini-Guide, At Home https://childsafetypledge.org/blog/our-winter-safety-mini-guide-at-home/ Fri, 06 Jan 2023 20:11:45 +0000 https://childsafetypledge.org/?p=1178 No matter where we live, we seem to spend more time in our homes during the winter months. It might be the cold weather keeping us inside or it might be less hours of sunlight. As parents and caregivers, there are certain things we should be on the lookout for to keep our families safe at home during the winter months.   Carbon Monoxide Detectors  Along with a full fire escape plan make sure that your home is equipped with carbon monoxide detectors. According to Safe Kids Worldwide, “in 2017, poison control centers reported 3,248 cases of carbon monoxide exposure in children 19 and under.” Carbon monoxide is known as the “silent killer” because it is an odorless, colorless, tasteless and flammable gas. It happens when certain fuels like coal, wood, charcoal, oil, kerosene, propane, and natural gas don’t burn completely. We might not know if we have faulty equipment in our homes that might produce carbon monoxide, but we can install carbon monoxide detectors that can alert us when levels reach an unhealthy level. When they go off, immediately evacuate your home, get fresh air and call for help.  Warming Up Our Cars  No one likes to get into a […]

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No matter where we live, we seem to spend more time in our homes during the winter months.

It might be the cold weather keeping us inside or it might be less hours of sunlight. As parents and caregivers, there are certain things we should be on the lookout for to keep our families safe at home during the winter months.  

Carbon Monoxide Detectors 

Along with a full fire escape plan make sure that your home is equipped with carbon monoxide detectors. According to Safe Kids Worldwide, “in 2017, poison control centers reported 3,248 cases of carbon monoxide exposure in children 19 and under.” Carbon monoxide is known as the “silent killer” because it is an odorless, colorless, tasteless and flammable gas. It happens when certain fuels like coal, wood, charcoal, oil, kerosene, propane, and natural gas don’t burn completely. We might not know if we have faulty equipment in our homes that might produce carbon monoxide, but we can install carbon monoxide detectors that can alert us when levels reach an unhealthy level. When they go off, immediately evacuate your home, get fresh air and call for help. 

Warming Up Our Cars 

No one likes to get into a freezing cold car in the winter! With modern technology it is even easier to remote start your car and get the heater going. But before you do that, make sure your car is outside of the garage or that your garage door is open.  Not doing so can allow a build up of carbon monoxide that can seep into your home. 

Cooking and Celebrating 

There are many special holidays and chances for family and friends to gather during the winter months. If party planning and preparation includes your children, be sure to read our post on Combining Tradition & Safety so that you can make kitchen time safer while building great memories and celebrating traditions.    

Fireplaces 

Not all homes have fireplaces and those that do might have gas, wood, pellet or even propane sourced heating elements. Here are some great fireplace safety tips for families that you need to know about before cozying up to the fire. First and foremost on your safety checklist should be having your fireplace cleaned and inspected by a professional. This should be done on an annual basis, so if you haven’t done it yet, be sure to schedule one soon!

Remember to share these tips with all of those that will be around children. The more of us doing our part to keep kids safe, the better!

For more information on keeping your children safe during the winter months, read our Winter Safety Mini-Guide, Outdoors edition.

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Recall Knowledge: Are My Kids Toys and Gear Safe? https://childsafetypledge.org/blog/recall-safety/ Mon, 19 Dec 2022 18:15:17 +0000 https://childsafetypledge.org/?p=1168 According to a recent article in USA Today “at least 1,127 toy recalls were issued from Feb. 24, 1974, to Nov. 3, 2022. The most commonly recalled items were dolls, plush toys, action figures, and toy vehicles, including from big manufacturers and retailers.”    Your home may now be filled with all sorts of new gadgets, gizmos and gear! In order to get the most out of those purchases and to make sure your kids are playing with and using things that are safe, it is important to take the time and complete the registration postcard that comes with them. Why? This way, if there is a product recall, you want to be notified right away.   The news is constantly filled with reports of children’s products being recalled and unfortunately sometimes it is because those products have severe injury or even death. Completing the registration process for all child products allows you to get first alerts regarding these important recall notifications followed with instructions on what to do next (return the product, receive a replacement or replacement part, etc).  Didn’t register the product or not sure? Curious about the status of a children’s toy or product? Then visit the Consumer Products Safety […]

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According to a recent article in USA Today “at least 1,127 toy recalls were issued from Feb. 24, 1974, to Nov. 3, 2022. The most commonly recalled items were dolls, plush toys, action figures, and toy vehicles, including from big manufacturers and retailers.”   

Your home may now be filled with all sorts of new gadgets, gizmos and gear! In order to get the most out of those purchases and to make sure your kids are playing with and using things that are safe, it is important to take the time and complete the registration postcard that comes with them. Why? This way, if there is a product recall, you want to be notified right away.  

The news is constantly filled with reports of children’s products being recalled and unfortunately sometimes it is because those products have severe injury or even death. Completing the registration process for all child products allows you to get first alerts regarding these important recall notifications followed with instructions on what to do next (return the product, receive a replacement or replacement part, etc). 

Didn’t register the product or not sure? Curious about the status of a children’s toy or product? Then visit the Consumer Products Safety Commission website for a list of all products that are under some kind of recall. The site lists the most recent recalls first and also allows you to search past recalls by category. 

You can also report an unsafe product yourself.

Maybe you’ve encountered something unsafe happening with a child’s toy or product. The government agency’s employees then keep track of your report and others to look for patterns and series issues so they can investigate further and then alert the public. 

Sometimes, a manufacturer may voluntarily recall a product due to their own investigation or findings into a product. If you have completed the registration process, you will be alerted to these recalls and if not, you will find them also listed on the Consumer Products Safety Commission. 

Always check the manufacturers recommendations regarding the toy or item and be sure to follow all of their guidelines in properly using the toy or item, too.  

Find additional resources like our recall safety guide on our Learning Hub.

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Alcohol Use in Preteens and Teens https://childsafetypledge.org/blog/alcohol-use-in-preteens-and-teens/ Mon, 19 Dec 2022 18:05:36 +0000 https://childsafetypledge.org/?p=1165 Underaged drinking is a concern for any parent or caregiver, especially this time of year. If you think about it, it makes a lot of sense why December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. There are a lot of celebrations around the holidays and a lot of people are on vacation or have more time away from their regular routine. It’s also a time when parents and caregivers should be extra vigilant with their preteens and teens around this issue.  Many preteens and teens are already feeling the pressure to drink alcohol or have had their first drink. In data reported on the site Ask.Listen.Learn, 23% of 8th graders reported having had their first drink. And the National Institute of Health reports that 96.5% of those underage drinkers got their drink for free.  The Issue  Underaged drinking is a serious public health concern that can have immediate consequences or can lead to lifelong consequences. Underaged drinking can lead to death (from a vehicle crash, homicide, overdose, drowning, suicide). It can cause injuries, impaired judgment, and increased risk of physical or sexual assault. It can also cause preteens and teens to struggle with grades, peers, to get in trouble with law […]

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Underaged drinking is a concern for any parent or caregiver, especially this time of year.

If you think about it, it makes a lot of sense why December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month. There are a lot of celebrations around the holidays and a lot of people are on vacation or have more time away from their regular routine. It’s also a time when parents and caregivers should be extra vigilant with their preteens and teens around this issue. 

Many preteens and teens are already feeling the pressure to drink alcohol or have had their first drink. In data reported on the site Ask.Listen.Learn, 23% of 8th graders reported having had their first drink. And the National Institute of Health reports that 96.5% of those underage drinkers got their drink for free. 

The Issue 

Underaged drinking is a serious public health concern that can have immediate consequences or can lead to lifelong consequences. Underaged drinking can lead to death (from a vehicle crash, homicide, overdose, drowning, suicide). It can cause injuries, impaired judgment, and increased risk of physical or sexual assault. It can also cause preteens and teens to struggle with grades, peers, to get in trouble with law enforcement, and addiction (to alcohol or other substances, too). 

And according to the NIH, underaged drinking interferes with brain development. The adolescent brain does not stop developing until the mid-twenties, so if our preteens and teens are drinking, then they are directly impacting their cognitive function and learning. 

What Can Parents and Caregivers Do? 

It is important for adults to talk to the preteens and teens in their lives about the dangers of alcohol, the effects of alcohol on the brain, and then also give them ideas on how to get out of situations when they are feeling pressured to drink. Sites such as Ask, Listen, Learn and MADD have great resources for parents and caregivers. 

Our conversations with our children can be one of the best tools we have. Running through situations, having them role play, come up with “what would you say if,” as well as having a code phrase to text or call you with that let’s you know “hey, I am stuck and I need you to come pick me up, no judgment,” are all conversations you should be having with your children when they reach their preteen years. It’s important to remember that we should continue to have these conversations as the years go on. Situations change. Friends change. Social opportunities change. This is a great way to help keep them safe. 

More Than Underaged Drinking 

As you start these conversations, we wouldn’t be surprised if other things begin to surface as well. For example, getting in the car with someone who has been drinking, or with someone who is distracted. Maybe they can use these skills when it comes to being pressured to try other drugs or risky behaviors. 

We will not always be able to be right there with our children, but having open and honest conversations with them and letting them know we are there for them is one of the best ways we can keep them safe. 

Find additional resources for your teen on our Learning Hub.

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