Back to school season is upon us. It’s time to reiterate the importance of Stranger Danger with your children. Whether your child is five or fifteen, don’t assume because you had “the talk” once, it should suffice.

Teens are just as vulnerable as elementary aged children. Discussions should include two important criteria:

1). Age appropriate - Talk with your teen about not walking and talking on the cell phone at the same time or drinking and driving. For younger children, discuss what or who a stranger could be. (Many children still think of a stranger as only an ugly, mean, nasty, scary monster looking person).

Develop a secret word or handshake for younger children. Many younger children would go with an adult if they were told “Your mom couldn’t pick you up and asked me to come get you.” In the event that you are unable to pick up your child and need to send a friend or co-worker in your place, alert your child that she may not go with that person unless the substitute knows the secret word or handshake. Role play this until you are confident your child fully grasps the importance of this check and balance system.

2). Discussion vs. Lecture “ Unless you wish to get blank stares or a response of “Ya ya I know already” it’s best to talk with your child, not to your child. Ask open ended questions. Avoid questions that can be answered with a simple yes or no answer. A two way dialogue will be much more effective than a monologue.

Just as the switch to Day Light Savings time is a reminder for all to change the batteries in smoke alarms, Back to School time should be a reminder for all parents to have age appropriate, interactive safety discussions with their students.