Advice On Protecting Your Child From Stranger Danger

by SuzyQ

posted on 09/18/2009

When I was a little girl growing up in a large city, I remember that one of the first things my mother taught me was not to talk to strangers. She would drum that into my head every time we went out -- probably excessively and to the point where I was petrified of people I didn't know. Of course, I was (and continue to be) painfully shy! But nonetheless, that advice is even more important today, especially as we hear about child abductions every time we turn on the news.

So besides not talking to strangers, what other ways are there to protect your child from "stranger danger? and ensure that if something terrible does happen, you can work with law enforcement toward a happy ending? Here are some suggestions.

Monitor your child's computer access, especially his or her Internet surfing. Keep the computer in a public area (and not your child's bedroom) so you can always be checking to see what he or she is doing. Install a keystroke tracking program if you have to, to ensure that they are not communicating with inappropriate people.

Communicate with your child regularly about the consequences of texting, IM'ing and e-mailing people they don't know, especially if they are asking for personal information. Don't lecture, keep the conversation light and make sure they know it's OK for them to talk to you about anything going on in their life.

Always have a current photo of your child, as well as all of his or her vital information. This includes a description of their hair color and type, eye color, any birthmarks or other physical markings that would allow police to find him or her, should the reason appear. Know their blood type, shoe and clothing size and whether they are left or right-handed. Participate in any fingerprinting activities sponsored by your local police department or other law enforcement agency. You can also order kits from www.222.childID.com or www.safety-identification-products.com.

To ensure your child understands that you're trying to teach him or her, develop some role-playing scenarios. Ask him or her what they would do if a stranger approached them in the shopping mall or in the schoolyard. Ask what they would do if they couldn't find Mommy or Daddy while they were in the store. You want them to know that they should find a policeman or go to a cashier in the store or find another mommy with children.

Finally, make sure your child always has identification on him or her. Both on their person (in their pants or dress pocket) and in their backpack of bookbag.

Keeping your child safe from stranger danger is one of the most important things that you, as a parent, can do.

Comment on this article

You must be logged in to post comments.

Previous Comments