"Safety School" for Super Parents

Every parent wants to believe they’re doing everything possible to keep their child safe — but are you really sure that car seat is installed correctly, or that your home routines are as safe as they could be?

 

The Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County is challenging local parents and caregivers to take a closer look. This fall, DOH-Charlotte is offering free workshops and a hands-on certification program designed to give families the knowledge and confidence they need to prevent accidents, protect children, and provide the best start in life.

 

The Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County (DOH-Charlotte) is putting a spotlight on child safety and wellness this fall with a pair of programs designed to support parents, caregivers, and the wider community. A series of workshops will highlight practical skills every family can use, while a certification course will train participants in child passenger safety.

 

The Child Safety and Wellness Workshops are free and open to the public. They will cover important topics such as proper car seat installation, water safety, safe infant sleep practices, and healthy nutrition. The next session is scheduled for  Thursday, October 9, from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. at the Charlotte County Family Services Center, 21500 Gibralter Drive in Port Charlotte.

 

For those unable to attend in person, virtual workshops will take place on Tuesday, September 30, and Tuesday, October 21, from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. Participants can register online here or call DOH-Charlotte at (941) 624-7200.

 

In addition,  DOH-Charlotte will host a Child Passenger Safety Certification Program later in the month. This hands-on course trains participants to install car seats correctly and teach others about child passenger safety. The program runs from Wednesday, September 24, through Friday, September 26, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a concluding half-day session on Saturday, September 27, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. All sessions will be held at the Family Services Center. Registration is $95, though scholarships may be available for qualified applicants. Those interested can sign up through the Safe Kids Certification website using course number FL20250711676.

 

Health officials emphasize that these programs are part of a broader effort to keep children safe and healthy in everyday settings. By offering both workshops and professional certification opportunities, DOH-Charlotte hopes to equip local families and caregivers with knowledge that saves lives and fosters well-being.

 

For more information, or to register for any of the programs, visit the Florida Department of Health in Charlotte County, call (941) 624-7200, or email [email protected].