What parents can do about safety and security in Pittsford Schools

Parents can help children feel safe by establishing a sense of security through routine and reassurances that they are safe. Schools are among the safest public buildings and this should be highlighted to children. Reviewing safeguards in your home and asking about safety procedures at school is another way to help children recognize the ways adults are keeping children safe. 

What parents can do to support safe schools 

• Discuss the school’s code of conduct with your child. Show your support for the policy and help your child understand the reasons for it.
• Involve your child in setting rules for appropriate behavior at home.
• Talk with your child about the violence he or she sees on television, in video games and possibly in the neighborhood. Help your child understand the consequences of violence.
• Teach your child how to solve problems. Praise your child when he or she follows through.
• Help your child find ways to show anger that do not involve verbally or physically hurting others.
• When you get angry, use it as an opportunity to model these appropriate responses for your child and talk about it.
• Help your child understand the value of accepting individual differences.
• Note any disturbing behaviors in your child. For example, frequent angry outburst, excessive fighting and bullying of other children, cruelty to animals, fire setting, frequent behavior problems at school and in the neighborhood, lack of friends, and alcohol or drug use can be signs of serious problems. Get help for your child. Talk with a trusted professional in your child’s school community.
• Keep lines of communication open with your child even when it is tough. Encourage your child to always let you know where he/she will be and with whom he/she will be with. Get to know your child’s friends.
• Listen to your child if he or she shares concerns about friends who may be exhibiting troubling behaviors. Share this information with a trusted professional, such as the school psychologist, principal or teacher.
• Be involved in your child’s school life by supporting and reviewing homework, talking with his or her teacher(s) and attending school functions such as parent conferences, open houses and PTA meetings.
• Talk with the parents of your child’s friends. Discuss how you can team up to ensure your children’s safety.