Fortunately child abductions by strangers on the street or online are rare. Most kidnappings occur by people that the child knows, usually a relative without custody. The American Academy of Pediatrics’ healthychildren.org website has suggestions for keeping your child safe.
Young children have intense curiosity about the world around them and an eagerness to explore. This associated with no awareness of consequences makes them the ultimate escape artists and the most at risk. Some children are more prone to wander off and this should make the family keeping very close contact like holding their hands. Using a stroller can help prevent the wandering off but the curious or restless child can climb out without close supervision. When a caregiver is shopping, at an amusement park or otherwise out in a crowd it is necessary to keep your eye on the child at all times.
Many children can wander very quickly before they can say their complete name or that of their parents. They can wander before they know how to ask for help. They can wander before they know the telephone number of their parents. One solution may be to have an identification bracelet or shoe tag stating the parents name and number. Shoe ID tags can be ordered on line by any of the usual online stores.
When choosing a school or daycare it is advised to evaluate the areas in and around where the children learn and play. These areas need to have secure doors and gates to prevent the child from wandering away. There should be policies that ensure that only a parent, guardian or someone designated by the parent can pick up a child.
When hiring a babysitter always check multiple references and ask for recommendations from friends and family members. A reliable childcare provider should never leave the children alone in the house or yard even for a minute.
Teaching “stranger danger” is difficult. The caregiver needs to talk to children about the trusted adults in their life who can help keep them safe and they need to teach their children what to do when they encounter someone they don’t know. Children need to be taught to never get into a car or go along with someone they don’t know even if the stranger is asking them if they might know the “lost puppy” in their car. Play acting or practicing what to do such as saying “no” in a loud voice and moving away as fast as possible while yelling for help has been suggested.
Children should know that it is always OK to tell their caregiver if someone has approached them or bothered them. They will not be in trouble and the trusted adults will protect them.
By Dr. Sally Robinson
Published 9/7/2019
Sally Robinson, MD Clinical Professor
Keeping Kids Healthy
Also See: UTMB Pediatrics - Pediatric Primary Care