Empowering children with personal safety tools is essential to preventing abuse before it starts. Karista Colwell and Annea Smith, Speak Up Be Safe Coordinator at the Child Advocacy Center of Rutherford County, join host Bryan Barrett to share how actionable education protects kids of all ages. From teaching preschoolers basic body autonomy to discussing cyberbullying and digital safety with middle schoolers, this conversation dives into age-appropriate strategies that give young people a voice.
Discover how community-backed programs, provided free of charge to local schools and organizations, are making a tangible difference across Rutherford and Cannon Counties. Plus, learn about upcoming community opportunities like the 8th Annual Light Up the Night event and how local support directly funds vital crisis intervention and prevention education.
Key Takeaways:
-
The "Speak Up Be Safe" Core: Why teaching children the five core safety rules empowers them to recognize unsafe situations and seek adult help.
-
Age-Appropriate Education: How safety curricula evolve from preschool body safety to middle school cyberbullying awareness.
-
Free Community Access: How the Child Advocacy Center provides no-cost prevention training to local schools, churches, and youth groups.
-
Community Impact & Events: Ways to get involved and support child protection, including attending the annual Light Up the Night fundraiser.
