We agree with this safety tip from Michael Linehan: We have, at times, spoken to women who were initially reluctant to learn truly effective self-defense because they thought of it as violent – as lowering themselves to the attacker’s level. A surgeon can wield a knife (scalpel) to save someone’s life. A predator can wield a knife to harm someone. “Wielding” your self-defense skills to preserve your life, and to return to those who love you and need you, is a powerfully positive and life- affirming action. It has NOTHING in common with the actions of those who prey on others for their own pleasure. So, if you haven’t made a decision about this before, please consider it now – because, when you are in the middle of a situation it might be too late to think about these matters and to decide what you are willing to do. Give yourself permission – right now – to do what you need, to defend yourself. Then, if you ever need to, you’ll be prepared to act immediately, decisively and powerfully to protect yourself.

Children’s personal safety skills, when supported, can help them stay safe with most people most of the time. Young people are at risk of assault, abduction, and abuse even in caring families, schools, and communities. Prevention is the key to protecting children’s personal safety. The good news is that there are simple and effective ways of teaching children how to protect themselves.

Just telling children about safety or just showing children what to do is not enough. When we just talk to children about danger, their raised awareness can actually raise their level of anxiety. Young people learn best by actively participating. Practicing children’s personal safety skills increases their confidence and competence. It is important to do this in a way that is not scary, but is fun. Your child can learn with you, and in programs such as Kajukenbo Arizona’s Martial Arts.