If your child is old enough
to play unsupervised after school, insist on a check-in phone call. Agree on where they will be playing and on how to communicate a new destination to you. Know the routes they take, so you can locate them in an emergency. Tell them not to take any short cuts. Determine in advance who they can play with, if the parents will be home and if they go inside anywhere to call and let you know. If they leave one friends home and go to another, have them let you know. One phone call wil save hours of worrry and you'll also be able to act immediately if they go missing.

Get to know your child's friends
Meet their friend's parents, babysitters, and anyone else who is at the home when your child will be there. Don't be afarid to ask your child if anything unusual happened while they were there.

Get involved in your child's school; and activities
Get to know their teachers and coaches. Let your child know you are actively involved in their life because you love them, care about them.

If your child uses online computer services
Ocassionly monitor their activity. Don't be afraid to sit with them at the computer., even ask them to explain things to you that you might not know about computers. Walk by and look at the computer screen occasionally
Consider blocking access to areas you dont want them to visit.

Most important teach them not to give out their name, address, or phone number or school information to anyone they meet online. Make sure they agree to never meet any online friend in person unless you are present.

Watch for Tip[s for Kids

Thank you to the National  Crime Prevention Council for their assistance