1. Check references for sitters, coaches and other childcare providers. Get to know the people in your child's life. Drop in unexpectedly from time to time.
   
2. Be concerned and curious about any older child or adult who shows great interest in your child.
   
3. Tell your child: "Don't let an older person touch your private parts except to keep you clean. If anyone breaks the rule, say "NO," then RUN and TELL."
   
4. Tell your child: "Don't ever keep secrets about touching. We promise you will never get into trouble for telling."
   
5. Don't focus on stranger danger. Kids need safety skills to deal with everyone they come in contact with, including people they know and trust.
   
6. Tell your child: "If an older child or an adult won't leave you alone or let you go, make a big scene by yelling and screaming as loud as you can."  Practice. Be Assertive.
   
7. Don't teach too many safety skills at once. Find "teachable moments" in everyday situations. Learning safety skills takes time.
   
8. Avoid using scare tactics. Fear immobilizes. Encourage kids to trust their instincts and stay calm enough to "think on their feet" in an emergency.
   
9. Have kids use the "buddy system" and always take the safest route home, but don't expect kids to protect themselves until they are developmentally ready.
   
10. Promote positive self-esteem and open family communication to decrease the risk of your child being abducted or molested.

For more information, please see our Safety Guide, Internet Safety Contract and Yello Dyno Programs.