My Safety Network: Introducing a Safety Network
What’s inside...
This book is designed to empower children by teaching them the importance of having a safety network. It introduces the concept of identifying 3 to 5 trusted adults that a child can approach if they ever feel unsafe or need help. Through engaging storytelling and practical advice, the book aims to provide children with the tools they need to navigate their world with confidence and security. The book is part of the Little BIG Chats series, which aims to help parents, caregivers, and educators facilitate age-appropriate discussions on essential topics through children's picture books. Discussion questions and interactive elements are included to encourage engagement and conversation. Suitable for ages 2 to 6.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-6
Length
22 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What is a safety network, and why do you think it's important?
Can you name some people who you would include in your safety network? Why would you choose them?
How can each person in your safety network help keep you safe?
What would you do if you felt unsafe or needed help?
How does knowing your safety network make you feel?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a comfortable and reassuring environment when discussing the concept of a safety network with your child.
Emphasize the importance of trust and safety, and explain why it's important to have trusted adults to turn to.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about safety and help them identify positive ways to handle uncomfortable situations.
Use examples from the book to highlight how a safety network functions, and relate it to real-life scenarios your child might encounter.
Support your child in identifying and understanding the roles of different individuals within their own safety network.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Personal Safety
Explanation: The book introduces the concept of a 'safety network,' consisting of trusted adults that a child can approach for help or guidance.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by identifying and remembering specific trusted individuals in their environments whom they can approach when they feel unsafe or confused.
Example Lesson: Empowerment in Decision Making
Explanation: The story encourages children to make informed decisions by seeking advice from their safety network.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to actively seek guidance and confirm their choices with trusted adults, fostering decision-making skills.
Example Lesson: Recognizing Safe vs. Unsafe Situations
Explanation: Through various scenarios, the book teaches children to distinguish between safe and unsafe situations, guiding them on how to react.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children to be more aware of their surroundings and to act promptly by seeking help when faced with uncomfortable or threatening situations.
Example Lesson: Communication Skills
Explanation: Children are taught the importance of open communication with their safety network, reinforcing the need to express their feelings and concerns.
Real-World Application: In real life, children can improve their verbal expression by regularly discussing their daily experiences and feelings with parents or guardians.