National ASK Day
Before You Send Your Kids to Play, ASK About Guns in the Home
ASK Day is sponsored by PAX, an organization dedicated to protecting children and their families from gun violence. June 21st was selected because it signals the arrival of the summer season when kids tend to play in other families’ homes more than at any other time of the year.
Why ASK About the Presence of Guns?
According to the PAX website, “Just talking to your child about the dangers of firearms is not enough. Children are naturally curious. If a gun is accessible in someone's home, there is a good chance a child will find it and play with it.” In addition, “Over 40% of homes with children have a gun, and many of those guns are left unlocked or loaded” (Quotes from PAX Real Solutions to Gun Violence Website, June 2008.) This means that the potential for playing children to find a gun may be much larger than many people realize.
How to ASK About Guns
PAX recommends asking about the presence of guns along with the typical questions a parent would ask before sending their child to play at a friend’s home for the first time. The question is best presented in a non-confrontational, non-judgmental way. It may seem easier to ask about such innocuous issues as TV viewing, snacks, pets, or supervision, but parents should not be intimidated by the seriousness of the subject. A child’s safety may be at stake. Likewise, don't assume that “this family would never own a gun.” You might be surprised.
When Guns are Present in the Home
If a gun is present in the home, it is your responsibility to make sure that the gun and the ammunition are secure and locked in separate places. Hiding them is not enough; kids are curious and quick. If you have any doubts or uneasy feelings about the situation, then this may not be a safe place for your child to play.
Though the ASK campaign is specifically geared towards younger children, parents of older children and teens will want to find out about the presence of guns as well. Though teens may be less likely to play with guns due to increased awareness and education, accidents can still happen. In addition, available weapons may pose a significant risk for teens having trouble with depression or violent outbursts.
Visit the PAX website to learn more about the campaign, pledge to ASK when you send your child to another home to play, or to order educational materials that may make it easier for you to discuss this subject with other parents.
