3 Simple Rules for your Child:
One- Stay Put!
They may get "more lost" trying to find you and shouldn't leave with a stranger. This will help reduce the time and distance of their separation from you.
Two - Call your REAL name.
Calling "Mommy" or "Daddy" makes it hard to distinguish your child's voice. Have them learn both parents' first and last names.
Three - Ask another Mom for Help
Statistically, a mother with children is the safest bet for your kids. Younger kids especially might not be able to differentiate between dark clothes and an authority figure like a police officer. Single men might also be reluctant to help due to fear of suspicion.
Talk About Safety in Everyday Situations
- We give kids positive, empowering rules for physically safe behavior, rather than pointing out all the things that could hurt them. You should do the same with personal safety
- We have to keep our fears in perspective and talk to our kids calmly about how to keep safe
- Try to talk to your children in small frequent bits, especially during teachable moments, for example, when you're at the mall and it's very crowded, ask your 3 year old what she would do if the two of you were spearated.