Predator Protection Tips
Tragic stories of other people's children being abducted or abused can frighten parents who may be confused about keeping their own kids safe. Many parents know that children should be warned about "stranger danger," but how do you do this without scaring them? And what about the far greater risk of harm from a family member or friend? The best way to protect kids from a threat is to eliminate it. Every state has some version of Megan's Law, which registers sex offenders and notifies the communities where they live. Advocates such as Marc Klaas have also pushed for stronger laws to keep child molesters behind bars longer and better treat those who are released. But because the world will never be a perfect place, the most important thing a parent can do is teach kids to think and let them know you are listening to what they have to say. This daily task increases your child's defenses against predators, and it's good advice for families regardless. Tips For Parents Teach your children to trust their own feelings and assure them they have the right to say no if they sense something is not right. Listen carefully to your children's fears. Children should know that no one should approach or touch them in a way that feels uncomfortable, and if anyone does they should tell you immediately. Be sensitive to changes in your children's behavior. Know where your children are at all times. Be familiar with their friends and daily activities. Be alert to anyone who is paying an unusual amount of attention to your children or is giving them inappropriate gifts. Obtain references for babysitters and be generally cautious about people who are left to care for your kids. Source: National Center For Missing And Exploited Children Rules For Kids You can be assertive, and have the right to say no to someone who tries to take you somewhere, touches you, or makes you feel uncomfortable, scared, or confused in any way. If you get separated from your parents in a public place, don't wander around looking for them. Quickly go to the cash register, security office or lost and found and tell the person in charge that you need help. You should not get into a car or go anyplace with anyone unless your parents said it was OK. Do not approach a car or person who you think is following you. Grownups should not be asking children for help. If they are having a problem, they should talk to someone older. Don't listen to people who ask for directions, need help finding a puppy or tell you that your parents sent them to get you because they are in trouble. If someone tries to take you somewhere, quickly get away and scream: "This person is trying to take me away," or "this person is not my father (mother)!" You shouldn't go places alone - take a friend. Always ask your parents before you leave the yard or go into someone's house. Never hitchhike or get a ride with someone unless your parents have told you it is OK to ride with the person. If someone wants to take your picture, tell them no and let your parents or teacher know what happened. No one should touch you in the parts of the body that would be covered by a bathing suit, and you should not touch anyone in these places, either. Your body is special and private. Source: National Center For Missing And Exploited Children