Each year, more than 700,000 children in the U.S. are reported missing to the police. About 99% return home safely, but more than 58,000 are abducted by nonfamily members; most are sexually attacked. How can we keep kids safer? We asked Ernie Allen, president of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
- Always know where your kids are, and don't leave small children alone.
- Role-play often. Let your kids tell you what they'd do if a stranger asked them for help in different situations, for example, if he said, "Come with me. Your mom is sick."
- Tell kids they always should get their parent or another adult if a stranger asks them to go somewhere or asks for help, even if it's just directions.
- Teach kids to say "no" and to follow their instincts to get away.
- Teach kids to be wary of "normal-looking" strangers too.
- Address fears head-on. Tell your kids that you love and trust them and will help protect them.
For more help and information, visit www.missingkids.com