While participating in the Family Leaders for Ohio Schools Academy at the Ohio Statewide Family Engagement Center, Ohio parent Terri developed a plan for an after‑school program supporting families by helping their children learn first aid basics and calm decision-making. Read more about her plan below.
Introduction
As a dedicated Grandparent and active leader in our elementary school community, I believe every child deserves the chance to feel safe, confident, and prepared when they are home alone. Many families juggle busy schedules, and children may spend short periods without direct supervision. My goal is to empower students with age‑appropriate safety skills so they can make smart choices, respond calmly in unexpected situations, and know when and how to get help.
Goal: To empower students with the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills needed to stay safe when they are home alone or faced with minor emergencies. This after‑school program supports families by helping children make calm, informed decisions in real‑world situations.
Objectives: Students will learn to identify common home hazards and practice safe decision‑making. They will demonstrate basic
first‑aid steps for cuts, scrapes, and minor burns, and recognize when to seek adult or emergency help. Students will also practice
clear communication skills for calling 911 and explaining an emergency. Through hands‑on activities and scenario‑based learning, students will build lifelong safety awareness.
Expected Outcomes
By the end of this after‑school program, students will demonstrate increased confidence and awareness in making safe choices when home alone. They will identify common hazards, respond appropriately to minor injuries, and recognize when to seek adult or emergency help. Students will also practice clear communication skills for calling 911 and explaining an emergency. Families will gain practical tools to reinforce safety routines at home, strengthening overall preparedness and supporting student independence.
Potential Challenges
Some students may feel unsure about discussing emergencies or practicing first‑aid skills for the first time. Others may have limited experience with safety routines at home, which can affect confidence. Attendance and consistency may vary in an after‑school setting, especially for families facing transportation barriers. Coordinating pickup times and ensuring safe travel home may require additional planning. With clear communication, supportive instruction, and repeated hands‑on practice, all students can grow stronger and more prepared.
Next Steps
The next steps focus on launching this as a structured after‑school program that supports families and builds student confidence. We will finalize scheduling, secure space, and prepare materials for hands‑on safety lessons. Families will receive information about enrollment and program expectations. Students will participate in guided activities, practice stations, and real‑world safety scenarios. As the program grows, we will monitor progress, celebrate student achievements, and strengthen school‑family partnerships around safety and independence.