Dear Family,

Your child’s class has begun a personal safety program titled “KIDS AND COMPANY: Together for Safety.” Through specially designed activities and role-plays, your child will be learning how to protect himself/herself from abduction. This program was selected by our district because it empowers children with the information, skills, and support they need to keep safe, without frightening them. The curriculum has received the support of leading national educational organizations.

This letter provides information and concepts to use at home with your child to reinforce the safety messages learned at school. Below is a list of the safety concepts being taught this year in Grade 4:

HOME ALONE – Children left “in-charge” need to be equipped with safety skills. The home alone safety rules include CHECK FIRST and NO, GO, TELL, along with keeping the doors and windows closed and locked; having emergency numbers posted by the phone; answering the phone as though an adult is home; phoning a trusted adult for help or advice; keeping the TV or music turned low so they can hear any unfamiliar sounds; avoiding watching or reading scary stories; and not “advertising” that they are home alone.

COMMON TRICKS – Children will be safer from people who victimize children when they know common tricks used by offenders. Common tricks include offers, animals, saying there is an emergency, asking for help, flattery, open the door, secret and networking. The BUDDY SYSTEM, CHECK FIRST, and NO, GO and TELL rules are keys to avoiding these tricks and staying safe.

The lessons your child will be participating in include activity sheets, which you can review with your child. Additional safety resources are also available from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. To order free pamphlets call 1-800-843-5678 or visit the National Center’s website at www.missingkids.com. Please accept this opportunity to work to with and talk to your child about these crucial topics. There is no one more effective in teaching and reinforcing your child’s safety than you!

Sincerely,

Sari Vansleet

School Counselor