CHILD SAFETY TIPS

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, among other child advocacy groups, believes that much of the "stranger danger" education taught by schools and youth organizations can confuse and frighten young children.

Such education, the center says, also fails to cover the more likely occurrence of a child being abducted by an acquaintance or family member. The center offers "My 8 Rules for Safety" to help youngsters be prepared without making them anxious. They are:

1. Before I go anywhere, I always check first with my parents or the person in charge. I tell them where I am going, how I will get there, who will be going with me and when I’ll be back.
0. I check first for permission from my parents before getting into a car or leaving with anyone - even someone I know. I check first before changing plans or accepting money, gifts or drugs without my parents’ knowledge.
1. It is safer for me to be with other people when going places or playing outside. I always use the "buddy system."
2. I say no if someone tries to touch me in ways that make me feel frightened, uncomfortable or confused. Then I go and tell a grown-up I trust.
3. I know it is not my fault if someone touches me in a way that is not OK. I don’t have to keep secrets about those touches.
4. I trust my feelings and talk to grown-ups about problems that are too big for me to handle on my own. A lot of people care about me and will listen and believe me. I am not alone.
5. It is never too late to ask for help. I can keep asking until I get the help I need.
6. I am a special person, and I deserve to feel safe. My house rules are:

• Check first.
• Use the "buddy system."
• Say "no," then go and tell.
• Listen to my feelings and talk with grown-ups I trust about my problems and concerns.

(Source: The Dallas Morning News)

Sharon Johnson, our PCE counselor, says that the W.H.O. program that she uses with the students covers most of this information.