As
a new school year begins, parents naturally worry about their children’s safety
as they venture out into the world. From crossing streets to navigating school
grounds, children face various risks that make safety a top concern.
According
to UNICEF Philippines, the risk of road injuries for children spikes when they
start school at age five, often leading to serious injuries or even tragedy.
This underscores the importance of not only sending children off with a kiss
but also equipping them with essential safety knowledge.
Parents
aren’t alone in this mission. Pru Life UK, a leading life insurer, partners
with parents to instill crucial safety habits in their children, especially
during the back-to-school season.
Engaging Children in Safety
Starting
a conversation about safety with children can be challenging, but it doesn’t
have to be. The key is to keep it simple, relatable, and consistent. Prudence
Foundation, the community investment arm in Asia and Africa of Prudential plc,
Pru
Life UK’s parent company, launched the SAFE STEPS Kids programme in 2019, a
public service initiative that uses engaging materials like videos, comics, and
posters featuring beloved Cartoon Network characters to teach children
life-saving information on personal safety, emergency aid knowledge and
disaster preparation.
This
programme empowers parents to introduce important safety concepts that are easy
to understand and immediately actionable, helping children not only protect
themselves against life-threatening situations but also look out for others.
Peace of Mind for Parents
Beyond
education, many parents seek peace of mind through preparedness. Staying
informed about their child’s class schedule, maintaining communication with
teachers, and understanding the school environment are vital steps in ensuring
safety.
However,
despite precautions, accidents can still occur. Pru Life UK’s PRUPersonal
Accident - Junior offers a financial safety net, covering unexpected medical
expenses due to accident so parents can focus on their child’s recovery and
education.
Shared Responsibility for Safety
Ensuring
children’s safety is a collective effort. Schools, communities, and
organisations like Pru Life UK all play crucial roles in creating a secure
environment for children. Through the Safe Schools Programme, in partnership
with Save the Children Philippines, Prudence Foundation enhances safety and
preparedness in schools across the country.
The
programme has taught children essential survival skills focused on three
pillars: safe learning facilities, school disaster management, and risk
reduction and resilience education.
Pru
Life UK remains committed to supporting Filipino parents with ongoing safety
education initiatives and accessible insurance options, ensuring every child
enjoys a safe and successful school year.
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