Interactive sessions at the Sharjah book fair taught children aged four to ten how to recognise unsafe situations, avoid strangers and seek help.
SHARJAH: Children aged four to ten have been learning how to recognise danger, respond to strangers and seek help through interactive storytelling sessions at the Sharjah book fair. Organised by the Child Safety Organisation (CSO), the activities used familiar situations and engaging characters to introduce practical safety lessons without frightening young audiences.
Held during the 45th Sharjah International Book Fair, the two sessions focused on everyday challenges children may face, including being approached by unfamiliar people or becoming separated from their parents in crowded public spaces.
The initiative highlighted how storytelling can make important personal safety messages easier for young children to understand, remember and apply in real-life situations.
How storytelling helps children recognise unsafe situations
One of the featured books, Tam Tam the Duck, written by Sahar Naja and illustrated by Fadi Fadel, explored the risks of following strangers or accepting unsafe requests.
Through the story, children learned why saying “no” can be important when they feel uncomfortable or uncertain. The session also explained the difference between harmless secrets and situations that should be discussed with a trusted adult.
A second book, A Trip to the Market, written by Sabah Deeb and illustrated by Fadi Fadel, addressed another common concern for families: children becoming separated from their parents in busy places.
The story encouraged young readers to remain close to their families and understand whom they should approach for assistance if they become lost.
Why early safety education matters
The sessions at the Sharjah book fair demonstrated how age-appropriate stories can introduce safety awareness through simple examples rather than complicated instructions.
By connecting lessons to situations children might encounter at shopping centres, markets or other public spaces, the programme aimed to build confidence and encourage safer decision-making.
Another important message was the value of speaking openly with parents, caregivers and other trusted adults whenever something feels wrong.
CSO’s approach also reinforced the importance of family involvement in helping children develop personal boundaries and recognise situations that require adult support.
Impact to expect
The initiative could encourage more families and educators across Sharjah and the wider UAE to use storytelling as part of early childhood safety education. Simple conversations about strangers, personal boundaries and asking for help may strengthen children’s awareness and improve their confidence in unfamiliar situations.
Making safety lessons part of everyday life
The Sharjah book fair provided an accessible setting for combining children’s literature with preventive education, allowing important messages to reach young readers and their families.
By presenting practical safety guidance through memorable stories, the Child Safety Organisation aims to help children develop habits that extend beyond educational sessions and become part of their everyday lives.
The programme also underlined the value of introducing safety conversations early, using language and examples suited to each child’s age and understanding.
