- The Dragonfly House
- Jul 9
- 2 min read
Summer is full of adventure—but keeping kids safe is the number one priority. Whether curating beach trips, sleepovers, or digital fun, these proven safety strategies help kids enjoy summer with confidence.
People & Places: Prepare & Stay Alert
Know their “safe sidekicks.” Make sure children are always with a trusted adult or friend during outings—and they know how to reach them (name, phone number, address)
Communicate discomfort early. Use code words or signals so kids can alert you if they feel uneasy, and reassure them there’s no blame or shame for sharing concerns
Meeting new faces. Teach kids they may need to ask uniformed adults or groups for help if separated and never go somewhere with someone they just met—even if they seem nice at first.
Digital Safety: Balance, Boundaries & Respect
Protect personal info. Kids should never share real name, address, school, or passwords online—and avoid friend requests from strangers.
Healthy screen limits. Balance digital time with offline fun—playing outside, reading, or engaging in hobbies.
Beware of scams. No in-game purchases without permission—pop-ups and “free” offers can be misleading.
Think before you post! The THINK checklist helps kids consider Impact, Truth, Kindness, etc., before sharing .
Handling Cyberbullying
Stay calm—don’t reply. Retaliation often escalates bullying.
Save proof. Encourage them to screenshot or document harmful messages.
Block & report. Use platform tools and involve a Safe Adult.
Escalate if needed. If it persists, contact school or law enforcement.
MBF’s 5 Safety Rules©: The Heart of Protection
These quick-to-remember rules empower kids to recognize and navigate unsafe situations:
Know What’s Up – memorized personal information and emergency protocols.
Spot Red Flags – be aware of boundary violations and unsafe signals.
Make a Move – get away or avoid dangerous scenarios (online or offline).
Talk It Up – share concerns with a Safe Adult until help arrives.
No Blame, No Shame – it's never the child’s fault, and they can always speak up.
Bonus: Free Printable Emergency Contact Card!
As an added safety measure, download and fill out this Emergency Contact Card for each child in your care. Place it in backpacks, glove compartments, beach bags, or with babysitters so essential information is always on hand.
This simple tool ensures your child’s important information—like guardian names, allergies, emergency contacts, and pediatrician details—is always accessible in case of emergency.
Download HERE
A truly safe summer combines preparation, awareness, and open communication. Encourage children to memorize info, trust gut feelings, and speak up—whether offline or online. Summer’s about fun and freedom—and with a few smart habits, it can be worry‑free.
