That may explain why a new picture book, Let’s Stay Safe!, is making its way into classrooms and living rooms, with 13,000 copies in circulation so far and plans underway for Hebrew and Yiddish translations.

“I hope this book makes a positive contribution to the conversations we are having with our kids,” said Rabbi Yakov Horowitz, 2008 Covenant Award recipient and Director of the Center for Jewish Life / Project YES, which developed the 32-page book.

“This offers parents and teachers a roadmap to delivering important messages and lessons, and as an illustrated book, it speaks to the children we are trying to reach. I would hope that it offers a springboard to even further and deeper conversations.”

The lessons in the book run the gamut, from crossing the street in a safe manner, and wearing a helmet while biking, to steering clear of strangers offering treats, and protecting against inappropriate touches and sexual abuse.

And though the lessons here are universal, the book itself – aimed at children from age 2 to 8 – is decidedly Jewish and traditional in nature.

“To follow these rules, we’ll all do our best. And we’ll daven to Hashem, He’ll do the rest,” is the book’s finale.

Project YES helps Orthodox teens lead productive, meaningful lives. Rabbi Horowitz has reached a national audience of teens, parents and educators with inspiration, advice, training and professional development tools.

For more information on Let’s Stay Safe!, or to purchase it, click here.