I grew up in the Northern suburbs of Melbourne. Back in those days, Glenroy and Strathmore were pretty rough suburbs. And as i became old enough to catch public transport into the city (age 10!), I had to develop a sense of “street smart” pretty quickly. The “Broady boys” were known to be bad.

One day I was on the Broadmeadows train coming home at around 3.45pm with my packet of lollies in a small white paper bag filled with “bananas”, “teeth”, “milk bottles” and “strawberries” which I had purchased all for 5o cents! I’m talking 1981! A chap wearing moccasins, hoodie and beanie came up to me and started hassling me for a lollie.  He stood in front of me and said “give us a lolly pretty boy”. I replied “no, why should I?” He stood there longer and asked several times to which I just ignored him. Eventually he said, “which station are you getting off at?” Again I ignored him. Then to my horror, he pulled out a knife, started stabbing the seat cushions and and said “I’m getting off where you’re getting off”.

I threw him the whole packet! And he left me alone!!! I probably pushed my luck more than I should have, but that’s just how I was!

I suspect public transport was a bit safer back then but maybe not that much. It may just be that we are more aware of all the incidents due to social media. I am not a believer in insulating our children from all of the hazards of the world. At the same time it’s important that we are not reckless and negligent in our duties of care and protection for our kids.

In training our children here are some of the tips I have tried to convey:

• travel with a mate if possible
• sit close to the driver or with groups of responsible looking people
• be aware and avoid negative vibes
• don’t engage with strangers
• walk on main roads, not through alleys
• call mum or dad if concerned and communicate once you have reached your destination
• avoid public transport after dark

Street smart kids will be well equipped for the challenges of life! Interested to hear your thoughts.

In Health and Wellness

Ranjit