Our children are our hopes for the future. However, the world around them is full of dangers. Preventing harm to our children is the best way to protect them. But what is the best type of prevention?

As simple as it sounds, a good, in-home education is the best thing we can offer our children. This requires elements of open communication, discussion of tough topics, and understanding. According to specialists at Delray Recovery, if achieved, this home-contrived base of knowledge can arm your child with the ability to deal with any situation: sex, drugs, violence, peer-pressure, relationships, strangers, internet safety, and so on.

To get started, take on an understanding role and open up communication on a subject of future or current concern. Give examples and imaginary scenarios in which your child can role play and understand the options available to them. Also be sure to use terms and descriptions that your child can understand.

Of course, this entire process is best if started while your child is at a young age. Stranger awareness is an example of such early concern. However, getting started later is far better than never. Instill in your child that these kinds of situations can happen to them and they need to know how to handle them.

Create an open environment. This is done by maintaining a judgment-free, yet caring demeanor. Tell your child that questions are good and that you are always available to help when they arise. Remind them and yourself that you were also once a child and you know what it is like to be young and learning. The idea is that your child will always feel comfortable broadcasting to and receiving information from you as their parent, no matter the subject. Be a good listener.

It is also helpful to learn to use everyday occurrences as a teaching tool. Remember that everyday life brings challenges and opportunities at overcoming them. These are things that can be expressed to your child and made example of. These are also great opportunities to prove your own personal values to your child through your reactions and choices in problem resolution.

Lastly, don’t stop being an active participant in your child’s life. Keep the lines of communication open. Ask questions. Take the time to listen. And make the best of opportunity to be their teacher as well as understanding and loving caregiver. Revisit subjects, and talk about the tough topics time and time again. You and your child will both reap immeasurable benefits from this unbarred relationship.

Author Bio

Melisa Cammack has been freelance writing for several years and loves writing for parenting and self-help blogs. She’s the mother or three ever-growing children, wife to one fantastic man, and the parent to two “fur babies”.