10 Ways to Raise a Street Smart Child

  1. GIVE YOUR CHILDREN POWER
    Give children permission to say "no" to adults. Let kids know this is okay.

  2. NO SHORTCUTS
    Let children know not to take shortcuts home where they could be abducted with no withness.

  3. IMPORTANT INFORMATION
    Children should memorize their complete name, address, and phone number.

  4. WHEN LOST
    Let children know where to go if lost. If in a store, look for people who work there. If in other places, look for a uniform person, such as a policeman.

  5. TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS
    Let children know if they feel that they are being followed, to react by going to a safe crowded place.

  6. CHECK IT OUT
    You can never know enough about your child's teachers, baby-sitters and coaches.

  7. CODE WORD
    Have a secret word that all people must know before your child talks to them or gets near their car.

  8. CHERISH YOUR CHILDREN
    Abductors look for loners and sad kids at school and in the playground. Treat your children with respect - love your children totally.

  9. NO PERSONALIZED CLOTHING
    Children who wear personalized clothing give the potential abductors an immediate way to start a conversation. Don't buy or let them wear such clothing.

  10. GOOD TOUCH/BAD TOUCH
    Identify what good touch is vs. bad touch. Tell children what to do if it happens to them. Identify private areas (as where the bathing suit covers).
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