A child's world is filled with simple joys. Playing with friends in the neighborhood or spending hours having fun at a friend's house are integral parts of their childhood. However, in changing times, it has become equally important for parents to ensure their children's safety while granting them freedom. Children often find themselves in situations while playing where they cannot distinguish between right and wrong. If parents explain certain essential points beforehand, children can handle themselves better during difficult times.

According to parenting coach Pushpa Sharma, children aged 9 to 12 should be taught specific safety habits before being allowed to go out. These lessons are not intended to scare children but to make them aware and self-reliant.

**Teach your child to speak up immediately if they feel uncomfortable**
It is crucial to explain to children that if they dislike something—whether it is an action or someone's behavior—they should not keep it a secret. Often, children do not share their troubles with their parents due to fear or hesitation. Tell them that if someone tries to touch them inappropriately, says something that upsets them, or shows them something that makes them feel uncomfortable, they should come home and tell their parents immediately. It is also important to reassure children that they will be heard and not scolded; this encourages them to speak openly about any problem.

**Do not hide things when told "Don't tell Mom and Dad"**
Children often comply with others out of trust or existing relationships. It is important to explain that if someone tells them, "Don't tell your mom and dad about this," they must immediately share that information with their parents. Parents can explain that healthy relationships do not involve keeping secrets. If someone asks them to hide something, it is essential to disclose that information. Teach children that they have ownership of their bodies; if anyone makes them feel uncomfortable in any way, they should clearly say ‘no’ and move away from the situation.

**Share immediately if someone's behavior seems wrong**
Danger does not always manifest as a major incident; it can begin with someone's strange behavior, conversation, or a joke. Therefore, children should be encouraged not to overlook even seemingly minor details. Parents can tell their children that if anything—be it a remark, a video, a joke, or an action—feels wrong, they should inform their parents immediately without fear. Children need to feel confident that their parents will understand their feelings and that their safety is the top priority.

**Forbid going elsewhere without informing anyone**
Children often wander off to a park, a market, or another location while playing with friends. They may not consider this a big deal, but from a safety perspective, it is not a good habit. Parents should clearly instruct their children that if they are playing at a friend's house and someone suggests going somewhere else, they must inform their parents first. Children should be taught from an early age that going to a new place without informing anyone is unsafe.

**Talk to children as a friend, not from a place of fear**
Ensuring a child's safety depends not just on setting rules, but also on building a strong relationship with them. If children trust their parents, they will be able to share their concerns openly. Therefore, it is essential for parents to communicate regularly with their children, listen to them, and reassure them that they are not alone in facing any problem. Proper guidance given at a young age helps children grow into safe and sensible individuals.

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