If your kids are big enough then send them to the training centers. You too must join a self defense center with them because you too need to know the defense mechanism. Sometimes these self defense weapons are so effective that you don't even need to learn the techniques of combative. Take your classes first from an instructor using paddled suits to teach you stuff. A good instructor will not only teach you to fight but also give you instruction on when and how to travel alone. Women have the fear of getting attacked only when they are travelling alone.
There are some weapons for self defense that can cause little harm for a fleeting time. You can use them without any fear but the lethal weapons are not allowed in every state. So, before you buy any of the self defense items you need to know which ones to use and whether it is lethal or non lethal. You need to know which one is going to be efficient for you depending on your stature and built. Before you can actually use any kind of self defense weapon, you must train yourself well to use in quickly when required. Otherwise you might waste too long in trying to operate it during an attack.
Do not over carry self defense weapons. This means that if you think a pepper spray can give your assailant what they deserve then don't carry other weapons like stun guns, tasers, kubotans and knives. Sometimes hitting with non lethal weapons can cause serious damage to the assailant and this is not necessary.