Keeping Safe in a Crowd: The Lost Child

There will come a time when preschoolers will end up being in a crowd, whether comprised of other preschoolers or a mixed group of adults and children. This can be a very scary time, but the anxiety can be lessened if preschoolers are thought basic safety rules. Prepare your preschooler so that he or she can remain safe if they get lost in a crowd. 

All preschoolers need to know their own names, names of both parents (both first names and last names) and where they live and telephone number. This is done by playing games and repetition, repetition, repetition. Ask questions such as “Where does John live?” and praise him when he answers correctly. Even when it is obvious that your preschooler knows the information, it is important to quiz him or her periodically to help them remember.

 

If your preschooler will be going out in a crowd it is a good idea to write their name and contact information on a piece of paper. Pin this inside a jacket or any other appropriate place on their clothing. Let them know that this is there. 

Tell your preschooler to stand in one place and call for mommy and daddy as loudly as they can so that you can hear them and other people will know that the child is lost.

 

Explain that they should look out for a safe person, such as a policeman or policewoman to help them, or a woman with a young child.

 

Once you are going out in public where the possibility exists that your preschooler may get separated from the family, dress them in bright clothing so that they will be easier to spot.

 

As unlikely as it may sound some parents are unable to fully describe what their preschoolers are wearing if this becomes necessary. It is important, especially when going out in public to memorize what your preschooler is wearing.

 

Carry a current picture of your preschooler with you at all times; it is always better to be prepared.