Strangers and Children

What is a Stranger?

A stranger is a person whom one does not know or with whom one is not familiar. Make sure your child knows this!

Tips to Tell Your Child

• If the child does not know the person or has not been introduced by parents, don’t go with them anywhere!
• Have a "code word" shared with your child. If a stranger asks the child to come with them, all the child has to do is ask for the "code word." If Mom or Dad did not tell the person the code word, the child does not go with them.
• If the child is grabbed by a stranger, tell them not to scream or cry. Rather, yell "He's not my Daddy" or "She's not my Mommy."
• Know the safest route to and from school, and instruct your children to follow that route.
• Know the length of time it takes your child to walk to and from school.
• Immediately check any delay in their arrival at home.
• Know your children's playmates and where they congregate.
• Instruct your children to report to you suspicious persons or attempts by unknown adults to approach them or become friendly with them.
• Instruct you children not to accept rides or gifts from anyone without your approval.
• Tell your children to check with you before going anywhere with anyone.