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Get Your Kids into the Safety Zone
While middle-school kids are beginning to test their independence, experts say it is essential for parents to remember that they are still a powerful force in influencing their childrenís attitudes and behavior.

Often times parents back away when they see their child’s thrust for independence. As a result, parent involvement in the middle grades decreases. But this is a mistake–middle school kids need you more than ever. –Partnership for Learning

As the parent of a middle-schooler you can help your child prevent bicycle and sports injuries by:

• Talking with your child about the risk of injury associated with the activity. Help your child understand the consequences of becoming injured.
• Encouraging your childís independence by making him responsible for his safety.
• Equipping her to avoid injuries by understanding what safety gear is available and appropriate to the activity.
• Ensuring that your child has the safety equipment she needs for appropriate protection and that it remains in good condition.
• Watching Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh’s safety video, “Only a Moment” for school-age children and teenagers.

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Updated 5/9/06