Legislator Laura M. Schaefer and the Nassau County Police Department urge you to talk with your children about “Stranger Danger”. A stranger can be anyone you least expect to encounter your child, familiar or otherwise, and can lurk anywhere, from the local park to the internet.
TEACHING YOUR CHILDREN ABOUT STRANGER DANGER
“Stranger Danger” is the important topic of teaching children about the inherent dangers they may face as they venture out into the world. Unfortunately, the world is a scary place and there are people out there who prey on children. “Stranger Danger” is a very important issue that all parents must address – and one that requires ongoing, open communication with their children.
The single most important thing to remember when teaching your children about stranger danger is to instill confidence, rather than fear. You want to equip your child with the knowledge and strategies they will need to protect themselves in dangerous situations. Also, keep your child’s age and maturity level in mind and base lessons upon that. Again, stranger danger lessons should be ongoing – adapt the conversation as your child grows as he/she is likely to encounter different types of situations.
First and foremost, children need to understand what you mean by stranger. Not all people unknown to them are necessarily dangerous – they need to understand the difference between “good” and “bad” strangers. This is important so children understand where and to whom to turn if they are ever lost or feel scared, threatened, or if they think someone may be following them. Examples of “good” strangers may include police officers, security guards, teachers, store clerks, etc. These are all examples of people to turn to when your child needs help. If they are approached by a “bad” stranger who tries to lure or physically pull them away, the best thing they can do is get the attention of other adults - whether that is by running to the nearest home, or making enough noise to be heard by someone, the vast majority of adults will help a child in danger.
STRANGER DANGER TIPS & STRATEGIES
• Know your name, address, and phone number.
• Use the buddy system – avoid walking anywhere alone.
• Trust your instincts – if you feel you are being followed or something is not right,
seek help immediately.
• If a stranger approaches you, you do not have to speak to him or her. Never approach a
stranger in a motor vehicle. Just keep walking. Do not accept candy or any other items
from a stranger. Never walk off with a stranger no matter what he or she tells you.
• If someone is following you try to remember the license plate of his or her vehicle and
immediately tell a trusted adult.
• If a stranger grabs you, do everything you can to stop him or her from pulling you
away or dragging you into his or her car. Drop to the ground, kick, hit, bite, and
scream. Do whatever it takes to attract the attention of others who can help you. If
someone is dragging you away, scream, “this is not my dad,” or “this is not my mom.”