If you are interested in teaching your children about safety you may want to look into two courses offered through the American Red Cross. Both of these courses are designed to be taught in a group setting. The American Red Cross does not offer them at their facilities, as they do with other classes. You can purchase the curriculum to teach in an elementary school or at church group or another setting.
The first class is “First Aid for Children Today” (F.A.C.T.). This course is designed for children between the ages of five and eight. It teaches about personal hygiene and health, as well as safety and basic first aid. The curriculum is non-threatening, and informative, but designed for this age group.
The second course is “Basic Aid Training” (B.A.T.). This course is designed for eight to ten year olds. It teaches the American Red Cross’s C, Check, Call and Care, as well as other first aid information. It includes an activity book for the students to complete.
These two classes would be a great enrichment opportunity for both schools and church groups. If you are looking for safety classes for you school, you should definitely look into these programs as well. A home school group might consider offering these classes as well.
If you have a teenager who is interested in babysitting, you should have her enroll in “Babysitter Training” which is offered by the American Red Cross. This is an extensive class, which not only teaches CPR and basic first aid, but also appropriate games for different age levels. At the end of the class your teenager should be prepared to begin babysitting safely and effectively. Many parents are impressed when a babysitter states that they have formal training. It can increase the number of jobs she receives.
The American Red Cross is also a great resource for adults offering a wide variety of first aid and CPR classes. You can also take classes, which prepare you to go into to disaster areas and help the victims there. It is always good to be prepared.