As kids grow more independent, safety becomes a bigger concern. The best time to start teaching essential safety skills? Right now—even as early as age two.

Most toddlers begin their adventures in strollers or being carried, and the transition away from that can be nerve-wracking. If you’ve ever watched your child dart toward a dog, chase a leaf into the street, or sprint toward a parent across a parking lot—you know the panic.

We react by grabbing, shouting, and clinging tighter next time—but it’s exhausting. Especially when we’re also juggling a baby, groceries, a purse, and the mail. It’s chaos.

But it doesn’t have to be.

✨ Empower Your Toddler Instead of Controlling Them

Rather than trying to hold onto them and everything else, let’s teach toddlers how to help us out by following two key safety commands:

🛑 STOP & WAIT

These simple commands can significantly improve a child’s impulse control and keep them safe in everyday situations.

🕹️ Make It a Game: Teaching STOP

Practice the STOP command during active play like bike rides or running around the yard. Turn it into a game of “freeze” and make it fun:

• “STOP” means freeze your feet

• “STOP” means stop your bike and wait

• “STOP” means do it fast—right now

• “STOP” means listen first, move second

Practice consistently. Show them exactly what you expect their body to do when you say STOP. It won’t take long for them to catch on.

Imagine this: your child rides ahead on a walk, you call “STOP,” and they immediately stop and wait for you. A car approaches—you yell “STOP”—they pause and stay put. That’s peace of mind.

⏳Why WAIT Works Too

The WAIT command is another life-saver in everyday moments:

• Waiting to cross the street

• Holding back in a parking lot

• Not touching hot cookies on the tray

• Pausing before grabbing something fragile

One-word commands give your child clarity in the moment. You can always explain later why you asked them to wait or stop—but in the moment, they just need to act.

🧠 Teach the Why, Too

After using STOP or WAIT, take time to explain the situation. Teaching the “why” behind your request helps your child learn to make safe choices on their own in the future. You're not just giving directions—you’re building life skills.

💡 Start Early, Stress Less

Don’t wait until your child is 4 or 5 to start teaching safety and independence. Toddlers are capable of so much—and the earlier you start, the easier it becomes for both of you.

With a little effort now, you’ll gain confidence, reduce stress, and raise a child who knows how to keep themselves safe.

Start today with STOP and WAIT—and give your toddler the tools to thrive.