Taking a child to the city?

Question

I have to go to work this weekend in the city and my on has asked to come with me - he says he really wants to, but doesn't want to get lost. I'll let him come because I need him to get used to it because we'll be moving there gradually. What precautions should I take?

Just guard him with my life when we're walking along the streets?

He's 7 years old.

Answer 1

There are lots of other kids in the big bad city which get along okay by being a bit more cautious (but not paranoid) and by following some basic common sense rules (may vary city to city)also WHAT CITY IS THIS? Is it that bad there? (drive by kidnappers or something!)

Basic Rules Kids SHOULD know (repeat often).

1. Don't talk to strangers

2. Don't talk to strangers even if they look nice.

3. Only cross at crossing when the light is green (in England...don't know where you are but you get the drift).

4a. Hold mummy's (daddy, aunt ect) hand before crossing the road and when walking in a busy place (don't let go kid).

4b. You wont need to hold your seven year olds hand around the whole city at all times. Also I think that seven is the age when this starts to become embarrassing or uncool.

(insist in busy crossings/streets if there not used to the city)

5. Make sure your kid knows your full name and there address just in case they get lost. (or write it down on a piece of paper and put it in his pocket).

6. If he gets lost ensure he looks for help in a  popular store/finds a police office ect (not just tell any old stranger that he is lost...or knock on someone's house door noooo wayyyy! only if your bleeding or in a life/death situation)

(your kid should know all this stuff already as there are fast cars and freaks in small towns.... aren't there? That is what I heard on the news about a guy that got a hammer and...)

Answer 2

Just hold his hand and warn him not to run off.

Answer 3

As long as you're with him at all times and obviously not letting him roam the streets alone, then I wouldn't worry too much. If it makes you feel better, have him hold your hand when you're walking on the street.

Answer 4

first teach him about the dangers of the world for kids:

strangers, perverts, and etc.

What is he supposed to do in the city?Does he have any friends or family there? If you are at work where is he gonna go? He surely cant stay home alone, cuz he is only seven!!