Child Safety Tips

Give them the words they need to communicate properly. Don't be afraid to call body parts what they really are. Make sure your child knows, from an early age, that these parts are indeed private and should never be touched by anyone but the parents or the child in private, at the same time, that they are not inherently bad. That way, they cannot be fooled by someone who wants to "play a game" with them or manipulate them into doing something mysterious. If you're wondering what other adults will think about your child knowing the names of private parts, explain what you're doing so the child doesn't get a mixed message, perhaps from a startled caregiver or teacher. No one should touch you on the parts of the body covered by your bathing suit, nor should you touch anyone else in those areas. Your body is special and private.

Dangerous people don't necessarily look like bad people or monsters. Make sure your children know that dangerous people often seem nice and polite. They are regular-looking individuals and they're not always adults, nor are they always men. They could be a family friend, or a baby-sitter, the friendly neighbor who lets them pet her dog, or a child who has been enlisted to help a child predator. They are experts at seeming friendly, helpful, safe, kind, loving, even generous. They might ask for help or directions or can seem sad or lonely. They might wear a uniform, preach or teach classes, or even volunteer at various charity organizations. They might just be passing through, or they might have lived next to you for many years. The initial goal for parents is not to terrify your children — in fact, they will be less terrified by knowing the truth and that there are things they can do to keep themselves safe. Those things start with becoming aware of their surroundings, learning the signs of dangerous people, learning how to trust their instincts, and learning what to do in dangerous situations. Click on the link for more about stranger danger. A simple rule to teach your children is that if they are approached by an adult stranger for any sort of help or information, it's wrong and they should run and tell an adult they trust... preferably their parent.

More Child Safety Tips Along with the child safety tips below, we've included more specific topics for parents to read through to prevent child abduction as well as articles about teaching stranger danger and internet safety. Child Internet Safety Stranger Danger School Safety Safe Shopping Protect your Child Missing Children Child Safety Online Internet Safety for Kids Child Safety in the Home Child Abduction Statistics

Carry the most current photo you have available. Always carry the most current photograph of your child, preferably with you in the picture, in your wallet. This is particularly helpful for fathers or male caregivers. Write down special birthmarks or identifying features always remember what your child is wearing, in case a situation arises, where they may be lost. See one of our various child id kits featuring extra cards for caregivers and parents.

Secure your home wisely.