Dr. Barbara Knox Shares 6 Strategies to Strengthen Child Safety

Child safety starts with small, consistent actions that protect children in everyday life. Whether at home, school, or in the community, your role as a parent or caregiver is to create an environment where children feel secure and supported. Dr. Barbara Knox, a leading voice in child protection, has outlined practical strategies that you can use to reduce risks and strengthen safety for the children in your care.

1. Teach Children to Recognize Unsafe Situations

Children are safer when they can spot situations that don’t feel right. Explain to your child what unsafe behavior looks like, including when someone tries to touch them inappropriately, asks them to keep a secret, or pressures them to go somewhere alone. Use clear examples that are appropriate for their age. Reinforce the idea that they should trust their feelings and tell you or another trusted adult right away.

2. Keep Open Communication at All Times

Children should feel comfortable talking to you without fear of being judged or punished. Ask them daily about their activities, friends, and how they feel. Listen without interrupting and avoid reacting in ways that might shut them down. The more you talk with your child openly, the easier it becomes for them to share concerns. Make conversations about safety a normal part of everyday life rather than a one‑time discussion.

3. Monitor Their Environment

Be aware of where your child spends time and who they interact with. This includes school, extracurricular activities, friends’ homes, and online spaces. Know the adults who supervise them and ensure those settings have clear rules and accountability. If you sense a lack of oversight, step in and address it. Simple measures, like checking in during activities or making unannounced visits, can make a big difference.

4. Set Clear Rules for Online Use

Many safety risks today come from online activity. Set rules for device use, including time limits and approved websites or apps. Teach your child never to share personal information, photos, or their location with people they don’t know in person. Encourage them to come to you immediately if they see or receive something that makes them uncomfortable.

5. Teach Assertiveness and Boundary Setting

Children should know it’s okay to say no to anything that makes them uncomfortable, even if the request comes from an adult or family member. Practice scenarios with them where they can speak up firmly and walk away. Praise them when they express their boundaries. This builds confidence and makes it less likely they will feel pressured into unsafe situations.

6. Build a Strong Network of Trusted Adults

Your child should know more than one adult they can turn to if they feel unsafe. This might include relatives, teachers, school counselors, or family friends. Talk with these adults so they understand your safety expectations and are prepared to listen and respond if your child reaches out to them. The more connections your child has, the better their chances of finding support when they need it.

Child safety is an ongoing responsibility that requires your attention and action every day. When you teach your child to recognize danger, keep communication open, monitor their environment, set clear online rules, encourage boundary setting, and connect them with trusted adults, you give them tools they can use throughout their lives. Small actions you take now can prevent harm and help your child grow up feeling secure and confident.