TAGUIG CITY -– 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 program 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 program 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 accidents 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 organizations 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 program 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.
