One out of every five children will encounter a child predator. You can keep children safe from these criminals with some of these tips.
1. Talk to children about strangers. Gear the talk to children’s level of understanding. Be straightforward, without frightening a sensitive child. Tell children to never enter a stranger’s home or car, or take gifts from them. Explain that children have the right to say no to an adult.
2. Talk about Internet safety. Teach them not to chat online with strangers and keep personal information off the Internet including their age, address or school they attend and not to give their email addresses or phone numbers to strangers.
3. Keep current files on children. Include a recent photo, description and friend’s names, addresses and phone numbers.
4. Predators select children that are easy targets. They look for children walking to school alone or who seem to be alienated from other children.
5. Meet with caregivers, check their references. Call a CCRC Specialist for tips regarding interviewing or researching caregivers. Call 1-866-674-KIDS to be connected to a specialist.
6. Teach children their full name and yours, phone number and address. They should know how to make local and long distance calls; use a pay phone; call home and law enforcement departments; and dial “0” for the operator or 911 in an emergency.
7. Be sure children know what to do if you are separated in public. They should not look for you; if in a store, they should go to the nearest clerk and ask for help.
8. Be aware of anyone who pays an unusual amount of attention to your children. Listen to children if they don’t want to be alone with someone. Ask them to tell you about anyone who asks them to keep a secret or any new adults they meet.
9. Choose a family code word. Instruct children to never go with anyone who does not know the code word. Stress that the word is not to be given to anyone and change it often. Notify childcare or schools immediately if children will be absent. Inform them of people authorized to pick up your children.
10. Encourage children to use the buddy system. Know neighbors and establish safe homes where children can go for help.
For more information or how you can help, get connected to CCRC online at www.ccrcla.org or call CCRC at 866-674-KIDS.