How to be Safe with Kids in Public – National Preparedness Month

Let’s face it, kids can be a little distracting sometimes. We do our best but sometimes it can be tough.
So how do we make sure we’re safe when we’re shopping, loading groceries and other activities?

1. Put them in a stroller or cart if necessary.
2. Talk to them about what’s to be expected of them. Kids actually do want to be helpful, but we need to put in the work to teach them. :)
3. Give them a job at the store. “Your job is to carry this.” Or “your job is to count all the things that have the color pink”. Or “your job is to help me push the cart”. Kids love to have purpose and help out.
4. If you must have a serious talk with them while in public, put your back to a wall/isle and bend down to their level.
5. Don’t shop without your spouse or friend. Sometimes having a second set of eyes is exactly what you need. Though I know it’s not always possible.
6. Use pickup when you and the kids are having a particularly rough day. 😆
7. Always keep an eye and ear out to your surroundings and kids. Parents seem to excel at this!
8. Try to keep one hand free, if possible. If you have both hands full, remember that anything in your hands can be used as a weapon (except your kids, obviously 🤪).
9. When loading groceries into the car, load the kids first, lock the doors (if it’s possible to lock the doors while keeping hold of the keys), then load the groceries. While keeping your head on a swivel at all times.
10. Remember that you’re doing your best. Don’t beat yourself up if you forget something or if you “do something wrong”…we’re all just doing the best we can. Kids can sometimes have their own plans and we need to remain cool, confident and in charge of the situation.
11. Lastly, limit other distractions. Stay off the phone, keep other conversations to a minimum, etc.

Sometimes all it takes is a little bit of communication. When we communicate with our kids long before we ever enter the public or into an emergency or disaster situation, not only will they be more knowledgeable on what to do, but we won’t have to worry as much about having to constantly be on top of them. It’s a win-win for everyone!

It’s also a great way to empower kids to feel as if they’re part of the family and can be an asset and help when needed. Kids love to help and be an active part of the family when we give them the opportunity.

And I’d like to mention one more time…just do your best! We all have bad days, even kids. You got this!