Once your child is old enough to participate in preschool programs, it’s time to start teaching them fire safety. The key is to talk to them in a way that they can understand the danger, without getting scared or forgetting important fire safety lessons. Follow the guide below to help you introduce the topic to your toddlers, so they’ll know how to stay safe in a fire-related emergency.

A Preschool Program’s Guide to Teaching Toddlers Fire Safety

Introduce the Topic

Wait until your children are calm and interested to introduce fire safety to them. It’s best if you can talk to them in a way that they’ll remember. You can call your local fire station and ask if they’ll give your family a tour. They could make this scary topic fun by letting your toddler tour a fire truck and climb on the equipment. If you can’t tour a fire station, something as simple as lighting a candle with them can serve as the visual lesson they need. If they are scared by the conversation, explain that while a fire is dangerous, they can protect themselves if they know what to do.

Practice, Practice, Practice

There’s a reason that preschool programs run fire drills; practicing is the best way to be prepared for an emergency. Practice stop, dropping, and rolling so they know not to start running if they catch fire. Make it a fun game where they can run around the yard, then stop, drop, and, roll, when you tell them to. Show them the sound of the house’s smoke alarm and practice with them what they should do if they hear it. This could include opening and climbing out of their window or testing the door handle and leaving the door closed if the handle is hot.

These young developmental years are important for your child’s growth, whether it’s in understanding fire safety or preparing for their educational future. The team at Mendon Child Care Center, located in Monroe County, NY, have created a fun and educational early learning center with preschool programs and school-age programs. They will use stimulating play and one-on-one care to support your child through early development. Learn more about their programs online, and call (585) 624-2337 to schedule a tour of their day care center in Victor or Mendon, NY.