- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- preteenagers today articles
- preteenagers today q&a
- teenagers today articles
- teenagers today q&a
- message boards
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
 |
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Too Old for Stranger Danger?
Keeping Kids Safe From Abductions
By Lisa Marie Metzler
The Elizabeth Smart story is a good conversation opener to approach your teen about self-defense against an abductor. Ask your teen what they may have done to avoid being taken from their home or a mall parking lot. Then pass on these tips from Gross:
- Stress that they use their own intuition. If something or someone about a situation just doesn't feel right, then avoid it.
- If they are taken by surprise, tell them to scream "stranger," thrash their arms (like a windmill) and kick so the offender can't grab them easily.
- If they are forced into a car, try to get the keys from the ignition. Open the car door or window and scream "stranger" while trying to escape.
- Do whatever you can to fight back. Don't worry about hurting the abductor.
- Never offer to help a stranger locate their car in a parking lot or find a lost pet or help with car problems.
These instructions may seem opposite of how our children are taught to help others and be kind to each another, but as Gross says this is the "new normal," and an adult who is truly in need won't be depending on a teen to help them. As always, it is better to be safe than sorry.
