This past April, a retired teacher posted this comment on risk communication expert Peter Sandman’s Guestbook on his web site www.psandman.com/gst2011.htm#children.
“For us adults (though I barely qualify despite my 67 years), the biggest challenge in communicating about risk is in dealing with children. Our granddaughter is seven years old, very big and very bright for her age, and has just learned to ride a two-wheel bicycle. On a recent visit, she proudly demonstrated her skills to grandma and me, riding around the quiet neighborhood, wearing a safety helmet, and staying on the sidewalk. When it comes to intersections, she has been instructed to walk her bicycle across the street. Although she has been instructed many times to ‘look both ways’ before crossing the street as a pedestrian and now a bicycle rider, she often forgets. What is your advice for parents and grandparents?”