Stranger abduction
Most parents of young children fear stranger abduction. However, in 2004 the number of stranger abductions reported to police in Canada was 8.5 per cent of the total abductions and less than 0.1 per cent of the total number of missing kids. It's an unlikely and rare crime, yet it's a crime that gets a great deal of press because it cuts to the heart of who we are as civilized beings. There's not a parent alive who hasn't been stricken with terror at the thought of his or her child being stolen.
What to say to your child
Begin with a realistic rule that will work, as this one does for many families.
"Don't go anywhere with anyone unless I (or name of caretaker, baby sitter) know about it. No, you can't even go with Aunt Heidi if I don't know about it, and it's not that Aunt Heidi would ever hurt you. I just have to know where you are at all times."
Notice that this instruction doesn't include the word stranger.
Children have definite, but peculiar, ideas of just who is a stranger -- a man in a black cape, a guy with a moustache, a woman like the witch in Snow White. Since abduction by strangers is rare, you want the rule your children remember to be realistic and inclusive.
Safety Tip
Keep a supply of your business cards or cards with your name, address, and telephone number to slip in your child's pocket.
