As a society, things are becoming more violent and crimes against children are continually increasing. In our efforts to prevent these crimes we are not keeping up with the violence, abduction, and rapes being done to our children. This section of the newsletter will not reach as many of the parents and children that I would like it to, but if it helps at least one child so as not to become a statistic, it will have done its job.

So should we constantly live in fear? No! Talk to your children frankly about the abductions. Don't hide what's out there from your children. Make them aware of how these abductors and molesters work and the techniques they use to get their victims. If your child knows how the abductor works your child can better handle any situation that may arise.

2. 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 medications without my parents knowledge.

3. Always use the "buddy system" travel in groups or with a friend.

4. 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, what has happened.

5. 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.

6. Never say you're alone if you answer the phone.

7. Never answer the door if you're alone.

8. Do not invite anyone into the house without the permission of a parent.

9. Do not go into people's houses without letting your parents know where you are.

10. Never get into anyone's car without permission.

11. know your telephone number and address.

12. Tell your parents, school authorities or a police officer about anyone who exposes private parts.

13. If someone ask you to keep a secret from your parents. Don't!

14. Go to the nearest cashier if you get separated from your parents in a store or mall.

15. Never hitchhike.

16. Run home or go to the nearest public place and yell for help if you are being followed.

17. Never run away from home.

18. Do not take dares to do foolish things, such as going into a bad area alone.

19. Do not baby-sit in a home you do not know.

20. Remember, it is not your fault-so do not be afraid to tell if someone has bothered you in any way.

21. Do not accept offers of alcohol, cigarettes or other drugs.

22. If you see someone hanging around the school yard or the park tell your parents. Learn to give a good description.

23. Do not approach people from cars who ask directions, step back and tell the occupant that you do not know, and walk rapidly away in the opposite direction so they can't follow you. Adults should not be asking children for directions.

24. Do not go with strangers even if they are dressed like policemen.

25. When walking I will always walk in the middle of the sidewalk toward the traffic so that someone can't pull me into an alley or drive up behind me and pull me into their car.

26. If a person asks if I want to see their puppies, kittens, rabbits, etc. I will not because this is a way they can pull me into their car/van when I try to look at them.

The list can go on and on. Just trust your feelings, if something feels bad or suspicious react on it. Talk to grown-ups about problems that are too big for you to handle on your own. A lot of people care about you and will listen and believe you. You are not alone. It is never too late to ask for help. You can keep asking until you get the help you need. You are a special person, and you deserve to feel safe.

2. Don't leave your child alone or unattended in public places.

3. Know your child's friends, their names, where they live, and how to contact them.

4. Know the routes your child takes to and from school, friends homes and other activities.

5. Listen to your children; let them know you take their concerns seriously; don't minimize their fears.

6. Avoid clothing and toys with your child's name on it. A child is less likely to fear someone that knows his/her name.

7. Always accompany young children to the bathroom in a public place and advise them never to play in or around the area.

8. Always accompany our child on door to door activities, i.e. Halloween, school fund-raisers, campaigns, etc.

9. Teach your child how to use the telephone, include area codes, collect calls, pay phones, 911 etc.

10. Establish strict procedures regarding who will pick up the child from school, etc., and be meticulously consistent.

11. Stay away from the "code word" principle, because this establishes dialog between the stranger and the child.

12. Post emergency numbers near your phone.

13. Check all potential baby-sitters and older friends of your child.

14. "Stay away from strangers!" is a popular warning to children to prevent abduction or exploitation. Unfortunately, however, many children are abducted or exploited by people who have some type of familiarity with the children but who may or may not be known to the parents.

The term stranger suggests a concept that children do not understand and is one that ignores what we do know about the people who commit crimes against children. It misleads children into believing that they should be wary only of individuals who have an unusual or slovenly appearance. Instead, it is more appropriate to teach our children to be on the lookout for certain kinds of situations or actions rather than certain kinds of individuals.

Children can be raised to be polite and friendly, but it is okay for them to be suspicious of any adult asking for assistance. Children help other children, but there is no need for them to be assisting adults. Children should not be asked to keep special secrets from their parents and, of course, children should not be asked to touch anyone in the bathing suit areas of their body or allow anyone to touch them in those areas.

Often exploiters or abductors initiate a seemingly innocent contact with the victim. They may try to get to know the children and befriend them. They use subtle approaches that both parents and children should be aware of. Children should learn to stay away from individuals in cars or vans; and they should know that it is okay to say no - even to an adult. Remember, a clear, calm and reasonable message about situations and actions to look out for is easier for a child to understand than a particular profile or image of a stranger.

Thank you for taking the time to read this article with your child or children.

Written By Sifu Rino Côté