Why You Shouldn`t Let Your Kids Go Out Without These Safety Tips

From an early age, parents try to teach their kids how to stay safe while out in public — to hold hands, what to do if they get lost, and to never, ever talk to strangers. But how much of this information actually sinks in?

While parents might be confident in the safety lessons they’ve instilled in their children, it might be surprising to some how much of this information kids remember when actually put in the situations. (For example, these parents quickly found out through one social experiment just how unaware of stranger danger their children are.) Repetition and practical preparation are key to keeping children safe in public places.

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Here are some basic tips — according to Parents.com — that all young children should know in order to help them if they get lost or separated from parents in public:

1. Have children memorize important information, like parents’ full names, address and phone number. Even very young kids — as little as age 3 — can be capable of accomplishing this.
2. Make sure to have your child practice calling you. Going through the motions of dialing a phone number from a landline and a cell phone will help ensure she can do it during a stressful situation.
3. Teach your child to say where they are, if they get lost — and not to go looking for you. This should make it easier to reunite with your child.
4. Make sure children know there are certain situations when it’s OK to talk to strangers, like if they get separated from mom and dad. Teach them to seek out certain people for help, such as a store employee, a security guard or even another mom with a child.
5. Review and quiz them on this important information in a fun way.
6. There are a number of tracking devices available on the market.

Ideally, children will never find themselves in a situation where they will have to use this training; but there are no guarantees — even with the most watchful caregivers. Distractions happen, and arming children with the proper skills can help promote a happy and safe ending.