by Imogen Rayne

Created on: March 22, 2007   Last Updated: September 22, 2010

"Children are a gift from God" Most parents say, but they are defenseless. Many predators look normal and are around your child daily. Is it that a friend that you met at the local library, a couple weeks back? Could it be the clerk at the grocery store, your child speaks with each week? Maybe the new neighbor is a registered sex offender. You can't tell if someone is dangerous, just by looking at them. They can be anywhere you go, however you haven't been told. What can you do to keep predators away from your children?

Start by talking to them while they are growing and talk weekly, if you must to save their life. By talking about the predators, you are teaching them how to spot a bad guy. Also teach them your name, phone number, and the address every day. Try playing a game or sing a song, in order to make it fun and easy to learn. Then you must teach them how to contact a police officer. Always remind them of what do if they are grabbed by a predator, it may save their life. As long as child is prepared, they can react in ways to save their life.

Next, you must take the time to look for sex offenders in your area. Find pictures and show your children their faces, so they know what they look like. Once a week, check for new predators and print their pictures. Designate a wall in your office to hang to pictures on. Be proactive and join community groups, which support tougher laws and restrictions on sex offenders. Don't forget to apply for a child's identification packet. Also, save a locket of hair in an envelope, every year and fingerprint them often.

There are many new things that swear they can protect your child. However, knowledge is the best defense you can give your child. As a parent, you must take time to talk about these things or the predator would loves to talk for you! Don't forget to check every door and window, before going to sleep every night. Watch for strangers that hang around and seem too friendly with your child. Don't force your child to hug any adult, not even family members. This can send the wrong message to the child and allow predators to control them easier.

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