Growing up without electricity was once a norm which blinded us to the dangers of exposed wires, playing with sockets, or trying to repair circuits. Over the years, we have had to learn the hard way about electricity and the safety precautions required. Our children today experience the wonders of power and the many benefits involved. However, their curiosity has made many mothers consider other alternatives that would not endanger their little ones.
I once caught my niece trying to get water inside a socket after unplugging the power cable. That single moment was a wakeup call that every child needs basic knowledge about electricity. They should know the dangers and why it is necessary to stay away. Here is how you can teach them;
Begin Early
Most parents teach safety at an early age because it becomes part of their routine even as grownups. I tell my nieces how dangerous it can be if they insert various items in sockets and each time they see their friends doing so, they call me. At their age, they learn quickly and trust whatever an adult says. However, some are overly curious to listen and in such cases, follow my second advice.
Repetition
Children become distracted easily. One minute you are showing them how to switch the power on and off and the next: they just want to play. You can say something important today, and they will not remember it the following day. We must remind them time and again without giving up. Besides, it will ease their curiosity as well.
Use Visual Aids
I once tried to explain some electrical safety theoretically, and my nieces slept along the way. I decided to use animations, and the results were excellent. Comic explanations like pretending to be in shock get them laughing but also creates a vivid image which prevents them from messing with electrical appliances.
Communicate Openly
While growing up, discussions were not part of the discipline. You either follow instructions or get punished. Kids today do not respond well to tough love, they tend to do the opposite, and therefore, you should openly discuss electricity and the risks involved. I realized that children retain information if you allow them to ask questions and if possible, let them engage.
Make the Discussion Interesting
Kids are playful and usually unfocused. So, how do you gain their attention? Buy electrical toys and make the session fun. You can also organize exciting activities that involve kits, fun videos, or tools. Utilize the technologies today to teach them safety measures and how to use electrical items.
Keep the Lesson Active
Do not stop teaching because as kids grow, their electrical usage transforms into stereos, computers, phones, and other household appliances. They may be familiar with electricity but their knowledge does not include how to respond to certain circumstances like; people should use wooden object to block current instead of pulling something/someone out with bare hands. You can also switch off the main switch.
We all want our kids to stay safe and use electricity appropriately. You should start the lessons early and keep repeating until they grasp the importance. Do not just teach; make the lessons fun, engaging, and simple. Most importantly, utilize modern technology or call an emergency electrician to employ them safely.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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