TALKING TO YOUR CHILD ABOUT MINE SAFETY
Talking to your children about mine safety is critical for every family.
Use the tips and video resources linked below to keep your family safe.
Tips from a Psychologist
- Choose a time when the child is not busy with a game or a cartoon.
- Choose a place that’s comfortable and safe for everyone.
- The more difficult the topic, the more stable our posture should be, the slower our pace of conversation.
- The more difficult the topic, the more attentive parents should be to their children’s reactions; like change in posture, facial expressions, or questions.
- Explain that you’re learning new and important things.
- Ask your child to help you remember this new information.
- It is important to consider all children when explaining the risks, using the language and approach most familiar to a child. Children with hearing difficulties cannot hear sounds of explosions, for example, making them less aware of the risks around them. The awareness about mines could be delivered via simple images and drawings.
Patron the Dog
Do you remember Patron the dog?
Do you know what he does?
He helps find explosive objects. An explosive is when there is a danger of an explosion. Imagine that we are training together with Patron.
Helping Your Child Recognize Dangerous Objects
Do you know what a dangerous object looks like?
- Show an illustrated picture of a mine and ask the child if they know what it is. The second time you have this conversation, show a photo.
- If the child tries to touch the picture, explain that in no case, even in the picture, should a child touch an explosive.
- Explain to your child where mines are found: such as in grass, under trees, near homes and fences. Mines can be glued to tree trunks or lurking in parks or playgrounds where fighting took place.
- Memorize the 3 rules with your children: do not approach, do not touch, call 101. Add gestures to these rules to help with memorization and repeat.
The 3 Rules of Mine Safety in Ukraine
Do not approach
Do not touch
Call 101
Reassuring Your Child
If you notice your child changes their position, tenses his/her muscles, or holds their breath, offer a hug.
Reassure them – "we are safe now and we will stay safe by studying this to make our walks fun"
- UNICEF Ukraine has created short, educational clips for parents and caregivers navigate a safe return home. From enjoying playgrounds to walking your dog, learn the keys to a safe return on Youtube with UNICEF Ukraine.
- Talking to your young children about mine risk is important, you can strengthen these messages by sharing entertaining, educational videos from UNICEF Ukraine.
- UNICEF Ukraine has prepared mine risk education materials for high schoolers to help parents and educators communicate with young people about mine safety. A series of safety videos await on Youtube with UNICEF Ukraine.
