Sometimes I wish the world was safer and that as parents we didn’t have to talk to our little’s about stranger danger.
We do feel much safer in this concrete jungle we call home but it certainly is not a “bubble” so we prefer they do not roam.
Dubai like the rest of the world can be extremely fast paced but it is easy for parents to become complacent when we assume everywhere is safe.
Yes it’s ok to be kind and smile, or even to give a big high five once in a while but always stay alert and warn your kids of uncomfortable behaviour, as we never really know when we may get ourselves into danger.
It’s hard to feel safe and secure when so many things your not very sure. Yes I understand your just being polite but when you run out of sight, Mammy gets an awful fright.
“Girls make sure you tell me where you will be, there’s no one that will love you or comfort you like me!”
Then the six year old pipes up with a statement she feels true. “Mammy they are all my friends, they seem lovely like me and you!”
Her response has me nervous, is she listening to me at all? Trying to think of a response but she is still very small.
We are trying not to take that sparkle from her eyes but also want her to be less trusting of those who might tell her lies.
They may have the biggest smile or more treats then I give you, but please say no thank you. You really don’t need them.
Stay together always in a group if you can. Look out for each other and always remember our plan.
It’s ok to be kind and smile from afar but always remember our stranger danger rules and never go close to a car.
If you think your being followed, or someone says “don’t tell” it’s ok to go.
Run and scream and yell!
We trust you a lot, you know the rules so well, but little loves listen to me, good adults know you must tell.
You have to trust your parents, you don’t see the dangers we see. This isn’t to scare you it’s just to remind you that no one will love you quite as much as we.
Just know not every smile promises a warm hug or a loving touch, some people unfortunately are not nice and no one could ever give you as much.
Also remember our secret code if an adult says come with me.
It is so important you listen out for it.
It’s there to protect you.
It’s just for us.
You, daddy and me!
