Program teaches kids how to keep themselves safe from harm

KINDERGARTEN children will be taught how to stay safe in a $300,000 program aimed at reducing the number of youngsters ending up in hospital emergency departments.

The RACV is funding the SeeMore Safety Program, which will next year be available for free in 2000 kindergartens statewide. Picture: iStock

KINDERGARTEN children will be taught how to stay safe in a $300,000 program aimed at reducing the number of youngsters ending up in hospital emergency departments.

NEW 24-HOUR GUIDELINE WARNS PARENTS TO DITCH TV BABYSITTER

CHILDCARE STAFF TO OVERRULE PARENT WISHES IN NATIONAL SLEEP SAFETY CRACKDOWN

The RACV is funding the SeeMore Safety Program, which will next year be available for free in 2000 kindergartens statewide.

More than 100,000 children and their families will learn how to manage everyday safety risks which could cause ­injury.

KIDS Foundation director Dr Susie O’Neill said the ­initiative helped youngsters build independence.

Kids Foundation director Dr Susie O’Neill.

“Our philosophy is better than bubble-wrap solutions,’’ Dr O’Neill said.

“We believe in providing children with managed challenges, balancing safety and the opportunity to develop, enjoy, contribute, achieve and take on the world.”

Monash University research involving more than 500 children has found the safety program has a positive effect.

A weekly average of 35,000 children attend hospital emergency departments nationwide. About 1100 children are admitted each week, and five die from injury.