About 2,100 missing-children reports are filed each day in the U.S. Many cases might be solved more easily if parents can provide a few key pieces of information about their kids, like: height, weight, eye color, and a clear recent photo. And make sure your kids have the safety information that could help prevent an abduction.
These strategies may help:
-Make sure custody documents are in order.
-Have ID-like photos taken of your kids every 6 months and have them fingerprinted. Many local police departments sponsor fingerprinting programs.
-Keep your kids’ medical and dental records up to date.
-Make online safety a priority. The Internet is a great tool, but it’s also a place for predators to stalk kids. Be aware of your kids’ Internet activities and chat room “friends,” and remind them never to give out personal information. Avoid posting identifying information or photos of your kids online.
-Set boundaries about the places your kids go. Supervise them in places like malls, movie theaters, parks, public bathrooms, or while fundraising door to door.
-Never leave kids alone in a car or stroller, even for a minute.
-Choose caregivers — babysitters, childcare providers, and nannies — carefully and check their references. If you’ve arranged for someone to pick up your kids from school or day care, discuss the arrangements beforehand with your kids and with the school or childcare center.
-Avoid dressing your kids in clothing with their names on it — children tend to trust adults who know their names.
If Your Child Is Abducted
Because the first few hours are the most critical in missing-child cases, it’s important to provide officials with information about your child immediately.
If your child has been abducted, contact local law enforcement right away. They’ll ask you for a recent picture of your child and will probably ask you many questions about the time and location you last saw your child and what your child was wearing.
After notifying the authorities, try to stay calm. You’ll be able to remember details about your child’s disappearance more easily if you remain rational and logical.
As parents ourselves and working with so many children we hope that none of us ever have to experience such a horrific event. Education is key for not only our children but us as parents as well.
Our martial arts classes teach life lessons such as abduction awareness daily. If you think your child could benefit from an environment like ours feel free to contact us to learn more about our trial program, schedule and pricing.
Making our community safer one person at a time,
Master Rim’s Taekwondo
1-844-342-1998