Children need to know that there are safe adults they can talk to when they feel worried, confused, or unsafe. Understanding safe adults helps children feel supported and confident when they need help.
Children aged 5–10 are still learning how to recognise who they can rely on in difficult situations. Teaching children about safe adults helps them understand that they are not alone and that there are people who will listen and help them stay safe.
When children know who their safe adults are, they are more likely to speak up if something feels wrong.
What Is a Safe Adult?
A safe adult is someone a child can talk to when they feel worried, scared, or unsure about something.
Safe adults are people who:
Listen carefully
Take children seriously
Help children feel safe
Try to solve problems calmly
Children should understand that safe adults are there to help them when they need support.
Why Children Need to Know Their Safe Adults
Children sometimes face situations that make them uncomfortable or confused. When this happens, it is important that they know who they can turn to.
Children who understand their safe adults are more likely to:
Ask for help when something feels wrong
Speak up about problems
Feel safer and more confident
Trust that adults will listen to them
Teaching children about safe adults is an important part of helping them stay safe.
Start the “Safe Adult” Conversation Today
Equip yourself with the professional tools to guide your child with confidence. Get the Safe Circle Storybook & Adult Toolkit Bundle for just £19.99.
Examples of Safe Adults
Children should be encouraged to think about several adults they know are safe.
Safe adults might include:
Parents or caregivers
Teachers
School staff
Grandparents or relatives
Another safe adult the child knows well
Having more than one safe adult gives children options if they ever need help.
Helping Children Identify Their Safe Adults
Parents and teachers can help children identify safe adults by talking about who they feel comfortable speaking to.
You might ask questions such as:
“Who would you talk to if you felt worried?”
“Who helps you when you need support?”
“Who do you feel safe talking to?”
These conversations help children recognise the adults they know are safe.
Teaching Children That It Is Always Okay to Ask for Help
Children should understand that asking for help is always the right thing to do when something feels wrong.
Adults can remind children that:
They will not get into trouble for asking for help
Safe adults are there to listen and support them
Their safety and wellbeing are important
These messages help children feel confident about speaking up.
Encouraging Ongoing Conversations
Conversations about safe adults should not happen just once. Regular discussions help children remember who they can rely on.
Parents and teachers can:
Ask children about their day
Talk about situations where someone might need help
Remind children they can always speak to a safe adult
These conversations strengthen trust and communication.
Practical Tips for Parents and Schools
Adults can help children understand safe adults by:
Talking openly about safety and support
Encouraging children to speak about their feelings
Reminding children that they are always listened to
Helping children identify more than one safe adult
These steps help children feel supported and protected.
Final Thoughts
Understanding safe adults helps children know that they have support when they need it most. When children feel confident about speaking to safe adults, they are more likely to ask for help and share concerns.
