The truth is…it really isn’t “stranger danger” you should be talking about with your kids, but “tricky people” instead. It is more likely that your child would encounter a person that looks normal and they may know, than a total stranger at the park. When using language like “tricky people”, it opens up a group of people that isn’t covered under “stranger”. A tricky person is a grown-up that ask kids for help (no adult needs to ask a kid for help) and/or tells kids to keep a secret from their parents (including, “It’s okay to come over here behind this tree” without asking mom first).
Teach your kids not to DO ANYTHING, or GO ANYWHERE, with ANY ADULTS AT ALL, unless they ask for your permission!!!! It’s far more likely that you’ll have some sort of relationship with an “abuser” than your child encountering a stranger. “Bad guys” get to know you and your child, and wait until you’re not paying attention because you’ve dropped your guard with them.
For more information go to Patti Fitzgerald’s website safelyeverafter.com.
You’ll feel educated and empowered to better train your kids to STAY SAFE from tricky people!!!
