Stranger danger: how to talk to your child about abduction prevention
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — After two suspected kidnapping attempts in San Diego this past week, some parents may be weighing the importance of having the “stranger danger” talk with their children.
Just how common is kidnapping in the U.S.?
According to the Child Crime Prevention & Safety Center, a child goes missing or is abducted in the country every 40 seconds. The center also stated that around 840,000 children are reported missing each year, though most of those situations are resolved within hours and aren’t always abduction cases.
Nonetheless, using the right language while bringing awareness to the issue of kidnapping could make all the difference in how a child reacts in a situation.
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When it comes to the phrase “stranger danger,” the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) explained that the concept should be further explained, so kids have a better understanding.
“The concept of ‘stranger’ may be difficult for kids. Many believe that strangers are mean, ugly people — so the nice man asking for help to find his lost puppy? Not a stranger,” the organization stated on its website.
According to NCMEC, children should also learn that some strangers –- like store clerks, police officers, or parents with children — can be helpful when they are in need.
“When you talk to your children about abduction prevention, don’t focus on warning them about certain types of people. Instead, teach them to identify and respond to threatening situations,” the organization continued.
NCMEC recommended using the following language when talking to children about abduction prevention:
— Don’t say, “Never talk to strangers.” Instead, say, “You should not approach just anyone. If you need help, look for a uniformed police officer, a store clerk with a nametag, or a parent with children.”
— Don’t say,” Stay away from people you don’t know.” Instead, say, “It’s important for you to get my permission before going anywhere with anyone.”
—Don’t say, “You can tell someone is bad just by looking at them.” Instead, say, “Pay attention to what people do. Tell me right away if anyone asks you to keep a secret, makes you feel uncomfortable, or tries to get you to go somewhere with them.”
According to the organization, parents themselves should also learn when and where kids are most vulnerable.
In an analysis of attempted abductions, NCMEC found that many kidnapping attempts occurred between 2 p.m. and 7 .m., involved a suspect driving a vehicle, occurred when the child was traveling to or away from school, and involved children between the ages of 10 and 14.
More information and resources about child abduction prevention can be found here.
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