Life in the Big City: Dos & Dont's for Protecting Your Kids
Living in a major metropolitan area like Los Angeles, New York City or Chicago comes with many perks like Michelin-starred restaurants, world-class theater performances and renowned museums. But there are also plenty of pitfalls, such as exorbitant real estate prices, excessive traffic and high crime rates. When it comes to raising a family in a big city, here are some dos and dont’s to keep in mind to protect your kids:
Don’t Chance It With Public Transportation
While it may be more convenient for your child to take the bus to school, it’s safer to drive him or her to school yourself. By driving your child to school, you can eliminate the chance of a stranger approaching him or her while walking to and from the bus stop or waiting for the bus to arrive. Driving to school together each morning also helps create a routine of quality time that you can spend together getting ready for the day.
If your schedule isn’t flexible to allow you to drive your child to school, find a friend to carpool with. Always let your child know who will be picking him or her up from school. In case an emergency arises and you need to have someone else pick your child up from school or sports practice, have your child choose a safe word that whomever picks him or her up must say so your child knows you sent the person to give him or her a ride.
Do Get an Alarm System
Unfortunately, crime is one of the prices that you pay to live in a bustling urban area, brimming with culture and diverse offerings. According to the most recent crime statistics from the Los Angeles Police Department, the city of Los Angeles alone tallied over 17,191 incidents of burglary in 2010, making home security in Los Angeles essential for every home.
Alarm systems don’t have to be complicated and costly. A recent article from the Washington Post notes homes that are not protected with a home security system are three times more likely to be targeted by thieves.
Don’t Leave a Spare Key Outside
Leaving a spare key outside of your home is like leaving an invitation from burglars to come in and make themselves at home. It doesn’t matter whether it’s under the welcome mat or in a fake rock or in a magnetic hide-a-key in an inconspicuous place. If the key can be found by an intruder, your home isn’t safe. Instead, leave a spare key with a family member or close friend who lives nearby.
Do Get Your Child a Cell Phone
While a cellphone may seem like a frivolous purchase for your child, it’s more of a gift for you than it is for them. When few homes have a landline phone, cellphones are essential to keep tabs on your kids when they’re at a friend’s house or a team practice. A cellphone is a valuable lifeline for your child to help him or her feel safe.
This post is by Jenny Daniels, a stay-at-home mom with a penchant for parakeets. Jenny writes about pet care and the exciting adventures of being a mom.
