As summer arrives, many families begin arranging camps, babysitters, daycare programs, and other child care options. While these experiences can be fun and enriching for children, it’s important to take steps to help keep them safe. Staying involved and maintaining open communication can help prevent abuse and neglect.
Here are a few important safety tips to keep in mind this summer:
- Screen caregivers and programs carefully.
Ask for references, check reviews, and run background checks when possible. Reputable caregivers should welcome questions about safety and supervision. - Stay involved and visible.
Let caregivers know you may stop by unexpectedly or check in throughout the day, and then actually follow through occasionally. Active involvement helps create accountability and keeps communication open. - Talk about body safety and boundaries.
Teach children about safe versus unsafe touch and reinforce that their bodies belong to them. Make sure caregivers understand your family’s expectations around discipline, privacy, and boundaries. - Watch for grooming behaviors.
Be cautious of adults or older youth who seek excessive one-on-one time with a child, give frequent gifts, or seem overly invested in the relationship. - Pay attention to behavioral changes.
Changes in mood, sleep, appetite, or willingness to attend child care can sometimes signal that something is wrong. - Remember that abuse can happen between youth, too.
Proper supervision and clear boundaries are important in all child care settings.
By staying involved and keeping conversations open, caregivers can help children stay safe and supported all summer long.