Stay Safe At School

confidenceDid you know that most kidnappers target children before or after school. Before and after school there is a large amount of confusion as children and adults come and go. In this confusion a kidnapper may attempt to snatch a child through means of deception.

A common deception is for a child predator to hang around before and after school, blending in and becoming a familiar face. They may even interact in a friendly manner with other adults and even children. During this time they are listening and learning names. They are watching and learning routines; does a child walk to school or does a parent pick them up? They are waiting for the right opportunity to strike.

Example: You are stuck in traffic and are 15 minutes late for picking up little Jimmy from school. An opportunity has presented itself for the stranger to now approach Jimmy.

“Hi Jimmy! Hey mom is running late because of an accident. She wants me to drive you home so you don’t have to wait here forever.”

“Oh okay, thanks”

THE CODE WORD

How could the above scenario be avoided? You and your child should develop a code word and keep it secret. The code word is used anytime someone other than YOU is sent to pick up your child.  If you have an emergency that prevents you from picking your child up provide your proxy with the code word so that your child knows that it is okay to leave with that person. Let’s take another look at the above scenario and how it can be different.

“Hi Jimmy! Hey mom is running late because of an accident. She wants me to drive you home so you don’t have to wait here forever.”

“What’s the code word?”

“Mom didn’t tell me a code word. She just said it was important I pick you up”

“Sorry. No code word. No ride. I think I will wait inside the school. Thanks.”

Remember, self-defense is more than just a physical set of techniques it is a mindset!

About The Author:

Jeff Reese, Gracie Jiu-jitsu black belt, has had the honor of learning from two generations of Gracie family members including Royce, Royler, Rodrigo, Rolker, Ralek, Rener, and Ryron; he teaches at Gracie NEPA in Scranton, PA.

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Posted in Kids Blog!, Stranger Danger

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