Every parent wants to ensure their child's safety, even when they are on their way to extracurricular activities. To this end, it's worth preparing appropriately by taking a few steps. Planning the route, teaching children about behaviour in dangerous situations, and utilising technology can help with this. It is crucial to act in accordance with the law and respect the child's privacy.
Planning a Safe Route
When planning a route to school or extracurricular activities, it's worth choosing the safest path. Research on children's safety, such as the 2020 NASK report, indicates that attention should be paid to lighting, traffic, and the presence of monitored pedestrian crossings. It is also advisable for the child to travel the route with a guardian until they have memorised it.
Stranger Education
According to the Foundation "Dajemy Dzieciom Sile" guide, educating children on avoiding contact with strangers is crucial. Children should be taught never to get into a stranger's car or accept gifts from strangers, which can be discussed during specialist classes led by psychologists.
Using Technology — Legal and Ethical Aspects
GPS technology allows parents to monitor their child's location. In accordance with GDPR, consent from legal guardians must be obtained before using such locators. The Personal Data Protection Office (UODO) emphasises the importance of considering the child's right to privacy and providing them with the opportunity to express their own opinion on the matter. GPS can be used, but control measures should be introduced to prevent violations.
Consultation with the Child
Talking with the child about using a locator is a good opportunity to emphasise their role in decision-making processes regarding their safety. It is important for the child to understand why we use such technologies and what benefits and threats they pose to their privacy.
Where to Seek Help?
If you feel unsure about your child's safety education or the use of localisation technologies, it is advisable to consult a child psychologist or a lawyer specialising in personal data protection law. Educational programmes organised by schools and non-governmental organisations are also recommended. In crisis situations, help can be obtained by calling the children's and youth helpline: 116 111.
Sources
- NASK (2020). "Bezpieczenstwo dzieci w ruchu drogowym." Dostepne: [https://www.nask.pl](https://www.nask.pl).
- Fundacja Dajemy Dzieciom Sile. "Poradnik dla rodzicow: Jak chronic dziecko przed porwaniem?" Dostepne: [https://fdds.pl](https://fdds.pl).
- Urzad Ochrony Danych Osobowych (UODO). "Ochrona danych osobowych w kontekscie RODO." Dostepne: [https://uodo.gov.pl](https://uodo.gov.pl).