It is not uncommon for parents to feel rushed and distracted during the holidays…tis the season after all. For this reason, here is a not-so-gentle reminder that though we cannot focus 100% of our attention on our children, reviewing safety protocol is key to having a safe and happy holiday season.

The NCMEC advises going to the mall early to avoid crowds, allowing you to take your time with your children.  Never leave them alone even when they’re going to the bathroom or they seem preoccupied with a toy in the store or a mall playground. Remember, predators go where the children are.

Safety experts say it’s important your children know exactly what to do if they’re separated. Planning is key, according to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

Your child should know what to do if they become separated:

• Teach your children to look for people who can help like security guards and store employees but never a stranger.
• Most importantly, your child should know to stay close to where they last saw you. Never go looking through the mall for Mom or Dad and never leave the mall.
• Empower your children to trust their instincts. If it feels wrong, it probably is wrong.
• Practice and remind your children of what to do often so they won’t panic.

It’s important to tell your children that a stranger is anyone they don’t know. Kids may conjure up images of “bad people” in their minds, but predators rarely look threatening. If anything, predators find their victims by appealing to them. They may tell your child they know you. They may comfort them or use a logo or character on their shirt to identify with them and gain their trust. The NCMEC advises never putting your child’s name or any identifying information on their clothing.

As your children get older, you may feel it’s time to give them more freedom, perhaps allowing them to shop on their own (with friends, never alone). The NCMEC says with older kids make sure there’s a clear time and place to pick them up, making sure your child has a means to communicate with you if they’re running late. Remind your older children about stranger danger and what to do if they are approached or feel uncomfortable in any way. Let them know it is okay to trust their instincts. Safe is better than sorry in the event their suspicions are incorrect.

Stay safe and have a happy holiday season!

–MoCHIP