Helpful Hints for Families with Latchkey Kids
In a time when budgets are tight for both families and school districts, it should come as no surprise that there are many latchkey children. In fact, it is estimated that there are actually about five million of them between the ages of five and 13. Latchkey kids are those who look after themselves while their parents are at work. Many of these kids walk home after school and are alone in the house for several hours each day.
This post will not get into the debate of the effects on children who are home alone; that is not the point I want to make. Families have to do what they have to do and oftentimes childcare simply does not fit into the family budget. That being said; when children are going to be home alone, I will say that it can only increase their personal safety if they learn at least a few self defense techniques.
Sure, every child is different; and age will factor in to some degree. However, I have friends who began training their children in self defense techniques when they were just toddlers. Why go to this “extreme”? Self defense training for any child of any age is anything but extreme. In fact, the younger children begin learning that they have the RIGHT to protect themselves, the better off they will be in the long run.
How can a family ensure that their children learn self defense techniques if they cannot fit childcare into their budget? My advice on this one is that they pick up a martial arts DVD or my Close Combat Training DVD program. If a family chooses to utilize a martial arts DVD, it is important that they perform research into the moves that will be taught. Shameless plug: my self defense program teaches the most effective fighting techniques for true self defense.
Further tips for kids who will be home alone:
• Parents should ensure that all doors and windows are locked in order to keep intruders out. (keeping in mind that children will need to have a pre-planned escape route in case of an emergency)
• Consider installing a home alarm system that is tied into the 911 system.
• Ask a neighbor to check in on children now and then; or arrange that a neighbor be available for children to go to their house in case of an emergency.
• Arrange for children to walk home with a friend or neighbor; never alone.
• Make sure children know how to dial 911
• Teach children what to do if they think they are being followed
• Purchas a personal alarm for children to carry as they walk to and from school.
There are many more steps that families can take to ensure the safety of latchkey kids. This short list should be helpful in getting you started.
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