The Blue Ivy Carter Parenting Model

Image Source: Eonline.com

Not all stars are paragons of good parenting. But Beyonce and Jay Z are off to a great start. For the first year of her life, their baby Blue Ivy Carter remained sheltered from the tabloids. It's a move that not everyone understood, but it's a great first start at responsible parenting by both of Blue Ivy Carter's parents. 


My practice is full of young patients who would fare much better if their parents sheltered them as lovingly as Beyonce and Jay Z sheltered their daughter. Most of us don't have to shield our children from the prying eyes of the public as part of our parental duties. But for the parents out there who read my blog, I'd like to share with you a few common situations where all of our children could use a little more protection.

Image Source: Idiva.com

Sleepovers

The tradition of the sleepover began back in the 50s and 60s with the birth of the suburbs. Those were simpler times. Now parents and kids have more modern concerns when venturing to spend the night away from home. Whether or not you send your child to a sleepover is up to you. But here are a few ways to do it safely:

• Spend time with the parents: invite them over for dinner or, better yet, ask to stop by their place for a casual meet and greet. You'll get a taste of their mores and values and judge for yourself whether their home is a safe environment for your child.
• Ask questions: When you're entrusting your child to someone else, no questions are out of bounds: religious beliefs, the programs featured at the sleepover -- you can even ask about where they'll sleep. Attentive parents will answer your questions willingly. If you meet resistance, this house may not be a great location for an overnight visit. 
• Call. Ask the parents for a number through which you can reach your child. Check in a few times a night and listen out for the general background noise. Touching base this way will make you feel less nervous and allow you to keep tabs on the way the night develops.

Image Source: WashingtonPost.com

Online Access

Children are accessing the internet at younger and younger ages. Most parents know about the dangers on the internet, but not everyone knows how to best protect their children. If you can't be there to monitor internet activity as they browse, check out this list of great parental control software.

Don't forget phones and tablets. Most parents don't hesitate to hand them over, but they hold the same dangers as traditional internet connections. And their app stores are often directly connected to your bank account. A few curious taps can have big monetary consequences. Monitored use is best.

Image Source: MyChildSafety.net

Themselves

One of the things adults remember fondly about childhood -- and what Blue Ivy Carter will likely remember about hers -- is how sheltered and protected they felt. But protected children should not be naive children. Kids actually feel more empowered when educated about how to keep themselves safe from common dangers. Here are a few topics to discuss with your kids:

• No strangers: We all know our children shouldn't talk to strangers but sometimes we forget to sit down and have the talk. Run through a few different scenarios so they know not to talk to strangers under any circumstances even if they offer them a puppy, ask for directions or say they know who you are.
• Speak up: Kids are taught to respect their elders. Make sure your kids know when they don't have to do what every adults says. Let them know that they're allowed to scream for help, yell or even kick if they're bothered by a stranger. 
• Run away: Let your child know that this is his best defense. Practice running away and screaming together. Your kid won't forget the fun of the moment and it will give him the courage to act in the worst case scenario.

Dr. Sharon Iglehart

The world can be a scary place. But as long as parents remain vigilant, they can keep their children safe. As you keep watch, remember to keep lines of communication open with your children. If they know that they can tell you anything they'll feel safe coming to you when you're in crisis. If you have any other favorite parenting tips for keeping kids safe, I'd love to hear them in the comments section!