Ask John Walsh: How Can I Be Sure My Child Is Safe At School?

Like most parents, Patti R. from Sweeny, Texas wonders how parents can know if public schools are safe for their children. It’s an excellent question, and John Walsh has the answer. You can take comfort in knowing that nearly all states require comprehensive background checks before hiring teachers. But for your child’s safety (and your own peace of mind), the best thing you can do is teach them the skills they need to stay safe:

• Make sure they know where it’s appropriate, and not appropriate, to be touched
• When confronted by a stranger, safety is always more important than being polite.
• If they’re uncomfortable about something, it’s always a good idea to tell an adult.
• Encourage them trust their instincts in an uncomfortable situation.

It’s also a good idea to visit your child’s school to find out the kinds of security measures the staff takes to keep your kids safe. Check out the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s website for more tips on kid safety in all different situations.