As a society, our efforts to prevent crimes against children have not kept pace with the increasing vulnerability of our youngest citizens. After hearing the tragic stories of abducted or exploited children, most parents are surprised to learn that many crimes against children can be prevented.
The most important key to child safety is effective communication with your child. Remember, children who do not feel that they are listened to or who do not think that their needs are met in the home are more vulnerable to abduction or exploitation. The first step you should take is to establish an atmosphere in the home in which your child feels truly comfortable in discussing sensitive matters and in relating experiences in which someone may have approached the child in an inappropriate manner or in a way that made the child feel uncomfortable. The simple truth is that children are often too afraid or confused to report their experiences and fears. In some ways, you should treat your children as your adult friends-allow them to talk freely about their likes and dislikes, their friends, their true feelings.

Unfortunately, the rising awareness of crimes against children has left many families with a real sense of fear. You and your children need to be careful and aware, but you do not need to be afraid. Talk to your child in a calm and reassuring manner, being careful not t discuss the frightening details of what might happen to a child who does not follow the safety guidelines.

“Stay away from strangers” is a popular warning to children to prevent abduction or exploitation. Unfortunately, however, many children are abducted or exploited by people who have some type of familiarity with them but who may or may not be known to the child’s parents.

The term stranger suggest a concept that children do not understand and is one that ignores what we do know about the people who commit crimes against children. It misleads children into believing that they should only be aware of individuals who have an unusual or slovenly appearance. Instead, it is more appropriate to teach children to be on lookout for certain kind of situations or actions rather than certain kinds of individuals.

Children can be raised to be polite and friendly, but it is okay for them to be suspicious of any adult asking for assistance. Children help other children, but there is no need for them to be assisting adults.

Children should not be asked to touch anyone in the areas of their body that would be covered by a bathing suit or allow anyone to touch them in those areas.

Often exploiters or abductors initiate a seemingly innocent contact with a victim. They may try to get to know the children and befriend them.

Lawyer Scott Stadler practices divorce & family law in Broward County, Florida. His office is located in the city of Coral Springs.

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