In this powerful and practical episode of Home Education with Ease, Christine welcomes her friend and guest, Theresa Zamagias, a Damsel in Defense representative and safety educator from Pittsburgh. Together, they share essential safety strategies for moms, kids, and families — from everyday awareness to home defense, code words, and protecting our children as they grow.

Theresa’s story began when her daughter moved away at 21, sparking her passion for helping other families feel safe and prepared. Christine and Theresa discuss everything from setting family code words to recognizing uncomfortable situations, talking to kids about body safety, and preparing your home and daily routines for unexpected situations.

You’ll leave this episode feeling empowered, informed, and ready to have those important conversations with your kids — without fear, but with confidence and awareness.

Stay tuned next week for another special guest, Rachel, sharing her insight on self-defense for women and children.

Join the Conversation:

Head over to the Home Education with Ease Facebook Group and answer this week’s questions:

1. Do you currently have a family code word? If not, discuss the topic with your family to create one. 
2. How do you teach your children about safe people and personal boundaries?
3. Have you ever had a moment when your intuition or awareness helped protect you or your family?

Share your answers with the community, ask questions, or DM Christine!

Takeaways: 

• Awareness is your first line of defense — if something feels wrong, it probably is.
• Teach children about “safe people” early and encourage open communication.
• Create a family code word for emergencies or uncomfortable situations.
• Don’t force physical affection — allow kids to set boundaries with hugs and personal space.
• Stay alert in everyday moments — stores, parking lots, and even your own garage.
• Stage your home for safety — keep protective items accessible in each area.
• You can be cautious without living in fear — awareness creates empowerment.

Quotes:

• “If something feels wrong, it is wrong — trust your gut.” – Theresa Zamagias
• “We always say it takes a village to raise children. You have to know your village well — and protect it.” – Theresa Zamagias
• “Your job as a parent is never done; it just evolves.” – Theresa Zamagias
• “Don’t apologize for protecting yourself or your children.” – Christine Furman
• “We don’t live in fear — we live aware.” – Christine Furman
• “It’s okay to say no to a hug; your children’s boundaries matter.” – Theresa Zamagias
• “Anything can be a teaching moment — and anything can be a safety tool.” – Christine Furman

Resources & Links:

Connect with Theresa - 

Email: [email protected]  

Phone:  412-287-4854

Website:  https://damselindefense.net/ 

Damsel in Defense – Defense in Pittsburgh Facebook Group

Damsel in Defense Safety App – Free app for personal safety with GPS location alerts

"What if you could send an immediate alert to your family or loved ones that you were in trouble or in an emergency situation with just a click of a button?

The Shield Community App automatically sends text messages to your specified contacts with your current GPS location and continues to do so until you confirm that there is no longer an emergency"

Safe Hearts Books – Resources for teaching children about body safety and tricky situations

Home Education with Ease Facebook Group – Join Here

Connect with Christine Furman on Instagram @thehomeeducationexpert and @eduplaylearning

Join the Home Education with Ease Facebook group to connect, share your biggest takeaway

Upcoming Guests:

• Rachel — Self-defense for women and children (10/27/25)
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Thinking about homeschooling but you're not sure where to start? Complete the EduPlay Learning Quiz to find your family’s learning style & best next step.

Complete the EduPlay Learning Questionnaire to share your educational goals, so Christine can guide you with a plan that best fits your families needs. 

Connect with Christine:

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: @thehomeeducationexpert | @eduplaylearning

YouTube: EduPlay Learning YouTube 

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