The situation of children being sexually harassed and groped is becoming more and more serious. Brightside has come up with 7 suggested ways for parents to teach their children, to help them stay safe from harassment when their parents are not around.
Keep your distance and limit talking to strangers: Children are taught not to talk to strangers. However, in many cases, they are forced to communicate with strangers. Let your child know that a conversation like this only needs to last 5 to 7 seconds. If it is longer, the child should leave and go to a safer place. On the other hand, parents should teach their children that keep a distance of 2m or more between themselves and strangers.
Do not use the elevator alone or go alone with strangers: Parents should limit children taking the elevator alone. In case of necessity, teach children to stand against the wall so that they can easily observe the actions of those around them. If the child is riding the elevator alone, when a stranger enters, it is best for the child to get out of the elevator. Parents should also teach children how to politely refuse when strangers ask to go with the elevator : “I’m waiting for my parents” or “My parents told me not to take the elevator with strangers”.
Scream when strangers approach: Many children will not know how to behave when strangers approach them. Parents need to warn children that when strangers act inappropriately such as touching, pulling, or holding hands, children have the right to behave “stronger” than usual. Children can completely defend themselves by biting, kicking strangers and attracting attention to those around them. Besides, children should not protest by themselves, but shout out loud “I don’t know this person” for people around to help.
Do not open the door to strangers when home alone: When parents are away, if a stranger calls, tell the child not to open the door for any reason. In addition, children should not answer that they are alone at home no matter who it is. If the other party still insists on opening the door or intends to break in, the child must quickly call the parents.
Do not disclose personal information to strangers on the Internet: Children today have the ability to use social networks and the Internet fluently. Parents should warn children that bad people often use the Internet to look for “prey”. Therefore, when using, children absolutely must not reveal their personal information, chat with strangers online and meet directly outside. Parents should talk regularly with their children about daily affairs and surrounding relationships so that they can catch and intervene in unhealthy relationships at the right time.
Teach children that bad people will not appear scary: In children’s perception, bad people are synonymous with bad looks. For example, often wearing dark glasses, wearing casual clothes, a fierce face, etc. However, in reality, the bad guy can be someone who appears with a polished, decent appearance and a lovely smile. . Therefore, parents must tell their children to be wary of any strangers and to refuse all invitations in advance.
Don’t listen to “sweet” offers: Most kids love to hang out. Parents need to warn their children not to get on a stranger’s car if there are invitations such as “your car is very good, let’s take you for a ride”, or “follow me, this dish is very delicious”.