Building on Success: Safer, Smarter Kids Returns

Richelle Davis

CAN Prevention Educator

We are thrilled to continue our second year of the Safer, Smarter Kids personal safety curriculum in Gratiot County! Last year, this program helped students gain the knowledge, confidence, and skills they need to stay safe as their world grows—and we are excited to be back in the schools for another year of Safer, Smarter Kids!

Safer, Smarter Kids is a developmentally appropriate, interactive curriculum designed for elementary students. Through a series of videos, discussions, and hands-on activities, students learn to:

• Recognize the difference between “safe” and “unsafe” situations
• Understand digital safety and how to navigate online challenges
• Identify trusted adults and know how to ask for help when needed
• Build confidence in advocating for their own safety

These lessons are designed to be empowering and fun, focusing on awareness and prevention rather than fear. Students learn through engaging stories, games, and discussions that make safety a part of their everyday lives.

Unfortunately, child sexual abuse and exploitation can affect children of all ages, backgrounds, religions, and socioeconomic levels. Research shows that 1 in 5 boys and 1 in 3 girls will experience sexual abuse before graduating high school. While these numbers are alarming, the solution is clear: 95% of child sexual abuse is preventable through education and awareness. By continuing Safer, Smarter Kids in our schools, we are giving students and caregivers the tools they need to protect children and help them grow up safe, confident, and resilient.

This year, the program will once again be taught to all 1st and 3rd graders in Gratiot County. Following each lesson, caregivers will receive Caregiver Connection Notes, full of activities, conversation starters, and tips to reinforce safety lessons at home. These notes help extend the learning beyond the classroom and give families practical ways to talk about safety in everyday life.



We are proud of the impact Safer, Smarter Kids has had in our community and excited to continue this important work. To learn more about the curriculum, visit safer smarterkids.org. Together, we can help our children grow safer, smarter, and stronger—one lesson at a time!