Building a Foundation of Trust
Creating an environment where young children feel safe coming to you.
Being a safe person to tell
The single most protective thing you can do is make sure your child knows they can tell you anything without getting in trouble. Practise responding calmly when they share small things, so they trust you with bigger things later. Never punish a child for telling you something, even if they broke a rule.
Key takeaway
How you react to small disclosures determines whether children will come to you with big ones.
Reinforcing safety messages
Young children need repetition. Revisit key safety messages regularly in different contexts. Keep the tone light and positive. Praise them when they demonstrate safety awareness, like checking with you before accepting something from someone.
Key takeaway
Repetition builds habits — revisit safety messages regularly in a positive, encouraging way.