Any story of a missing child affects me, for as a parent I feel for the missing child's parents and their loss. The pain, the grief, the sadness and the number of “what if's” that go through their minds at their predicament is understood by any parent. For we are all vulnerable. One is not safe because we have bigger houses or higher fences, it can happen to anyone and it is up to us to protect our innocents, the children.
Stranger Danger
As adults we know too much, as much as we like to see the good in people some people just are not good and it is important for us to relay that to our children without disturbing their innocence.
1. Explain to young children who a stranger is. Usually young children do not take to outsiders easily, but you never can take this as a reassurance. Start educating them when they are old enough to understand.
2. It is important to clearly define who a good stranger is for if they were to get separated from you in a crowd, children need to know who the figures of authority are that they can approach.
3. Educate your children on the clear dont's to do when faced with a stranger. Don’t take sweets, don’t leave with a stranger even though they say that mummy or daddy asked them to do. Don’t engage in behavior that they feel uncomfortable with, sit on a stranger’s lap or hold hands with a stranger just because they have been asked to.
4. Talk through a plan of action with your children if faced in such a situation. NO, YELL, RUN, TELL are easy steps for even a small child to remember to do.
5. Always make sure that your child knows that they can talk to you about anything, Give them the reassurance that it is not their fault if they have to complain about an adult, and not to feel guilty.
Parental Watch
1. If venturing into large crowds with your children, organize a place where you can meet if you do get separated. Older children should be taught to memorize your mobile number and be able to contact you in times of trouble. For younger children, place your contact details either in their pockets or shoes.
2. Keeping your children safe doesn’t only contain itself to outdoor environments. Be wary of who your child contacts or who will contact your child through the prevalent social networks. You know your child best, analyze if they are responsible enough to be on such sites.
3. Always try and carry a picture of your child in your purse or wallet. If your child does get separated from, you have immediate pictures to help them being found.
4. Never get your child to answer the doorbell even though you are expecting guests. Trouble always ensues in situations where you least expect and unsuspecting children can easily be snatched.
5. If your child does get lost, try and maintain a clear head and work fast. The first few hours are crucial in finding your child, it does not help to have a grief stricken breakdown, despite your fears or anxiety.
6. If you are going shopping and you feel that you will be too distracted to keep an eye on your child, then leave them at home. Better be safe than sorry.
Recently the news have been filled with kidnapping of the innocent five year old, Seya Satheyvimi. Her fate, a tragic end, as parents we all wept at her sudden demise. Our thoughts and condolences go out to the grieving family. There are no words to console. Hold your children tight and protect the innocents.
By Mayuri Jayasinghe
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