🚨Three Essential Steps Every Parent Should Take to Protect Their Child in Response to AB495 Approved by Gov. Newsom, October 2025🚨
As parents, we all want to ensure that our children are safe, supported, and well-prepared for any situation that may arise. Whether it’s an emergency, an unexpected school absence, or the need for someone to step in temporarily when we can’t be there, taking a few proactive steps can make a world of difference.
In light of AB495, which was recently approved by Governor Newsom in October 2025, parents are now required to take additional steps to ensure the safety and well-being of their children in public schools. To help you navigate these important responsibilities, here are three essential steps every parent or guardian should take to protect and prepare your family:
1. Update Your Child’s Emergency Contact Information
One of the most crucial steps in ensuring your child’s safety is keeping your emergency contact list up-to-date. Schools typically ask for emergency contacts in case something happens to your child during school hours, and it’s essential that you have a reliable list of people who can act on your behalf if necessary.
Here’s what you should do:
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Make sure your school has at least five trusted adults listed as emergency contacts for your child. These contacts should include both cell phone numbers and alternate phone numbers.
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The school should exhaust this list before allowing anyone else to pick up or assume the role of caregiver.
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If you wish to retain full control over medical decisions for your child, note that no one is authorized to give medical consent unless you have given explicit permission.
This step ensures that in case of an emergency, the school can reach someone who can make decisions on your behalf and ensure your child’s safety.
2. Complete a Caregiver’s Authorization Affidavit (CAA)
A Caregiver’s Authorization Affidavit (CAA) is a legal document that allows someone else to handle routine school matters and medical care for your child if you’re temporarily unavailable. This can be especially important in situations where you may need to rely on another trusted adult to act in your place for a short time.
What you need to know:
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Provide copies of the completed form to your school, child care provider, and the caregiver you designate. This ensures everyone involved is on the same page in terms of your child’s care.
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The CAA allows the designated adult to manage school matters and medical care, but it does not change custody or guardianship. It simply gives temporary authority to handle routine issues until you’re able to step in.
By completing a CAA, you help ensure your child’s needs are met even when you’re not physically present.
3. Create a Family Preparedness Plan
Having a family preparedness plan is critical to help your child feel secure and know what to do in the event of an emergency. It’s also essential to have a clear plan that you and your family can follow in case of unexpected situations, from natural disasters to medical emergencies.
Steps to take:
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Develop a written plan with your family that covers critical details like who will pick up your child in an emergency, where you’ll meet if you get separated, and how to handle medications and backups.
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Teach your child what to do if approached by someone they don’t recognize. Encourage them to stay calm and always verify with you or a trusted adult before leaving school with anyone unfamiliar.
This plan can also include a clear protocol for contacting one another in case of an emergency. Make sure your child knows who to contact and what steps to take in order to stay safe.
Staying Involved and Informed
Your involvement in your child’s school community can make a significant impact on their overall well-being. Get to know your child’s teachers and school staff, and stay informed about what’s happening at school. The more you are involved, the better you can protect your child and make sure they are supported in every way possible.
Our children rely on us to be proactive, informed, and ready for any situation. By completing these three essential steps, you’re not just ensuring their safety—you’re also empowering yourself and your child with the tools to handle the unexpected.
Stay Connected, Stay Prepared
Remember, your child’s safety comes first. By taking these simple yet essential steps, you’re ensuring that you and your family are prepared for whatever comes your way. Make sure to review these steps with your child and involve them in the process so they understand the importance of staying safe and secure.
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