ABC's of Child Protection

The following ideas are from The Good Knight Campaign, a traveling crime-prevention program for schools nationwide. The Good Knights was founded by a group of retired law-enforcement officers. These ideas are not only for young children, but for teens as well.

Criminals often to try to lure children using a variety of tricks. Kids must learn to identify strangers by their behavior instead of by their appearance or familiarity. Here's what they should know:

AUTHORITY: Someone may use his or her position of authority to harm or trick you. Don't go anywhere without your parent's permission.

BRIBE: Strangers may try to get you to walk away with them by offering you candy, toys, money or even computer games. Don't fall for this trick.

CRISIS: Someone may make up a crisis like, "There's been an accident and your mother is in the hospital, she sent me to pick you up!" to get you to go with him. Choose a secret code word with your family and don't go with anyone who doesn't know it.

DANGER: If a person approaches you with a gun or a knife, run to the nearest house or crowd and yell, "Help!" as loud as you can.

EGO: Someone may compliment you on your appearance or talents, or offer to "make you a star." The person is just trying to make you think how great you are so you will trust him.

FALSE CARING: Beware of people who claim to care for you more than your parents or friends. They may be trying to build a false sense of security in order to harm you.

GAMES: Adults shouldn't play games with kids they don't know, period. Don't be fooled into playing a game with a stranger, instead walk away and tell your parents about the incident.

HELP: Someone may ask you to help find a lost pet or for directions. Remember, adults should ask adults for help, not kids. It's okay to say "no."

JOBS: Ask your parents before you accept a job. Earning money for a job well done is always nice, but it could be another trick.

For more information, visit www.goodknight.org