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A group of kids between the ages of 8 and 10 are better equipped to
protect themselves thanks to a class that teaches self-defense. RADkids
teaches kids how fight off a bad guy instead of sitting quietly.
The RADkids program held their graduation Tuesday night at an after
school club in Oregon. The kids are taught physical moves - and also
the importance of using their voices. They use phrases like, "Stay back
you're not my Dad" and "No, No, No."
Along with physical moves they've learned, they were also taught to use
their voices. "RADkids are taught the difference between screaming and
yelling when they're screaming people think they're just playing. when
you're yelling you're using your voice to help protect yourself," says
Tracy Nelson, the Executive Director and Founder of Street Smart Center
for Family Safety. "Unfortunately we have to prepare our children for
the reality of the world we live in without scaring them, " says
Nelson. Kids also learn to run to the phone, and dial 9-1-1.
But kicking and yelling isn't the only defense they're taught. "They
are taught that if they can, still get away. If the stranger has not
yet grabbed them their first priority is to run."
Nicky Pierce's son Devon is now a RADkid. She says instead of just
teaching him to run away, he knows what to do. "Instead of scaring them
and saying watch out - it empowers them and gives them a choice," says
Pierce.
The RADkids are also taught that these moves are only to be used
defensively when you're in trouble. Not on the playground or with your
brother or sister. This is the second group of kids to graduate from
the Netherwood Knolls Elementary After School Program. A group of 5 to
7 year olds graduated in December.
Updated: January 17, 2008, 10:34 am
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