KIDS Matter!

Kids  Initiating Defensive Strategies

This class is an excellent opportunity for parents to open the lines of communication with their children about danger and how to be safe.

In this class, we teach parents how they can start to talk to their kids about a subject that is difficult to approach.

As parents, we don't want to instill fear in our children about people who do bad things.  But we also want the children to learn how to be safe.

Children learn that they can be influential and powerful even though they're small.  We reinforce their value as a part of the family unit. 

Together, these teachings create an environment where the family can all talk about the importance of safety.

Each class starts with a discussion with the parents as to the goal of the day's class.  This ensures that the parents mirror the lesson at home, and can practice together.

Children are given permission to be loud and violent if a person tries to abduct him/her.

Vocalization (yelling) of key words is practiced.  The key words are those that will signify danger to a by-stander or police officer.  Without these key words, others may mistake the commotion for a "tantrum" or poor behavior.

Children are taught basic but effective escapes and strikes to help them in case of abduction.