One of the joys of parenting is watching your kids grow in confidence as they begin to take independent steps to explore the world. However with this come anxieties about their safety especially when they begin to go out of the house on their own. Here are a few ways that parents can teach their kids about street safety.

The first step is to help your child memorize his or her name, home address and telephone number. also show your kid when and how to use emergency numbers like 911.

Teach your children never to accept any rides or food items from strangers. They must also resist from talking to strangers and accompanying them anywhere, no matter how harmless they seem.

Show your children the safest route from home to school, playground or anywhere that they have to go regularly. Point out the secure and risky spots and also point out the homes of trusted adults where they can go in case of emergencies.

Talk to your children about street safety. Discus the dangers of drugs, violence and sexual abusers in a manner appropriate to their age. Also teach them how to avoid street fights and walk away from potentially dangerous situations.

The global recession has affected economies the world over. Families that once spent lavishly on food, clothes and entertainment are struggling with mortgages, high living costs and pay cuts.

While adults in such situations are keenly aware of the need to cut costs, kids do not always understand the urgency to save that extra dollar. They often resent having to do away with the goodies they have been used to. Here are a few ways which can help parents to give their kids a better understanding of family budgeting in times of recession.

While kids are too young to grasp the complexities of market forces, be wary of putting the blame on individuals. Clarify that it is not dad’s or mom’s boss who is being mean but a problem that is taking place all over the world.

Explore fun ways to have a good time at home. Instead of going out for a pizza treat, involve your kids in baking one at home. Take a nature walk at a neighboring park or pull out the Scrabble board and pit your wits against each other.

This is might not seem an easy time for the family but you can use it to teach kids about saving which will equip them to take future decisions. For instance, if they whine for the costly best-selling toy car, give them an option to go for a movie over the weekend.

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More on Parenting Issues

Starting kindergarten is a major milestone in the life of a child. Suddenly he or she is no longer a toddler, protected by parents but an individual taking the first step out into the world on his own. Here are a few guidelines that will help you and your child to cope with the first day at kindergarten.

Begin a few days ahead by discussing what going to school would be like. Praise your child by saying what a big boy or girl, he or she has become. Talk cheerfully about meeting other kids, playing and learning new things.

If possible, visit the school beforehand to familiarize yourself and your child with the new place and faces. Meet the teachers, other kids and their parents so that your child is not left to cope with the unfamiliar, the very first day on her own.

Let your child be an active participant in the preparation process by choosing his or her own school supplies. This will lend an air of excitement and anticipation of happier things to come.

On the first day of school, make sure your child gets tangible support from you. Give her a big hug, lots of kisses and reassure your child that when she comes back, you will be right here at home, waiting for her.

Finally don’t forget to take a photo of your little scholar on the first day of school. This will not only make him or her feel proud and look ahead with confidence but many years later will remind you both of the momentous occasion in your lives.