Young Children Should:

  • Never say they are along if they answer the phone; they can offer to take a message or say their parents will phone back.
  • Never answer the door if they are alone.
  • Not invite anyone into the house without the permission of a parent or babysitter.
  • Not go into people’s house with letting anyone know where they are.
  • Never get into anyone’s car without parent’s permission.
  • Not take candy or other gifts from strangers or anyone else with asking a parent first.
  • Never play in deserted buildings or isolated areas.
  • Scream “fire! help me!” and scatter books and belongings if they are forces toward a building or into a car.
  • Move away from a car that pulls up beside them if they do not know the driver.
  • Be taught their full telephone number and address.
  • Be taught that it’s alright to say “no” to an adult if the person wants them to  do something you’ve taught them is wrong.
  • Know that no one has the right to touch any part of their bodies that a bathing suit would cover.
  • Tell you, school authorities or a police officer about anyone who exposes private parts.
  • Tell you if someone has asked them to keep a secret from you.
  • Go to the nearest cashier if lost or separated from you in a store or mall.

Teens Should:

  • Tell you where they are at all times or leave a written or recorded message at home.
  • If attacked for money, jewelry or clothing, give it up rather then risk injury.
  • Avoid shortcuts through empty parks, fields, laneways or alleys.
  • Run home or go to the nearest public place and yell for help if they are being followed.
  • Feel that they can talk to you and call you to pick them up any time, any place.

Parents Should:

  • Avoid clothing and toys with your child’s name visibly on it. A child is less likely to fear someone that knows their name.
  • Never leave a child alone in a public place, stroller, or car. Not even for a minute.
  • Always accompany young children to the bathroom in a public place and advise them never to play in or around the area.
  • Keep an up-to-date color photograph of your child, a medical and dental history and have your child fingerprinted.

* Master Phoenix Le Grand, PhD M.A.