When we think of Holiday shopping, we think of all the glowing
lights at our area malls and the various eye-catching
decorations in shopping centers. Along with the distraction of
our ‘to do’ list in our heads, we get preoccupied with carrying
bags and scoping out gifts. But with the whirlwind of
diversions, we cannot put our guard down on who is scoping out
our own children.
To help with this here are the top 7 things parents can do to
prevent their young from falling prey to strangers and child
kidnappers in the busy hustle and bustle of the season. 1.Stay
connected. Make sure you have your children with you whether in
a stroller or holding your hand. Even if your child stays next
to you other times of the year, all the distractions of toys,
decorations, and Santa can make any kid get sidetracked. For
older children invest in a family walkie-talkie set. Make sure
they know how to use it and check in with them on regular time
intervals to know where they are – even if they are right next
to you. 2.If your child is lost go right to security. Most malls
and shopping centers have security protocol when a child is
missing. Don’t try to look for your child alone. Let them help
you the second you realize you cannot find your child – every
moment counts. 3.Know what your child is wearing that day, and
carry a recent picture with you in your wallet. Most moms and
dads have lots of pictures of the kids, but baby pics are not
helpful if your child is lost and security needs to search for
them. 4.Teach your child what to do if a stranger approaches
them. First – Run away! Second – Tell somebody! 5. Role play
with your child ahead of time. Use tactics that some kidnappers
have used in the past and teach your children not to ‘fall for a
stranger’s sneaky tricks!” i.e. stranger favorite lures: candy,
video games, comic books, toys, telling them “your mommy told me
to bring you home etc. 6.Do not have your child wear anything
with their name on it – i.e. back packs, purses, and jackets.
Child offenders with pick up these clues and use the child’s
name when speaking with them to gain trust. 7.Practice,
Practice, Practice! Reviewing these strategies not only will
help your child remember, but keep it on your mind as well. We
all want our children safe and happy for more holidays to come.
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