Talking to Kids About Stranger Danger the Right Way

The classic "stranger danger" warning is outdated, most child harm comes from familiar people, not strangers, and many strangers are safe helpers. The goal is to teach situational judgment, not fear.

Teach Safe Behaviors, Not Just Fear

• Trust their gut: if something feels wrong, leave and tell an adult.
• Identify safe helpers: store clerks, parents with kids, uniformed staff.
• Use a family code word for anyone claiming to pick them up.
• It's okay to say no and be loud if an adult makes them uncomfortable.

Practice Real Scenarios

Role-play situations like getting lost or being approached. Practicing what to say and do builds confidence so kids act calmly under pressure.

Stay Connected

Know your child's routine, friends, and routes. Keep communication open so they feel comfortable reporting anything unusual without fear of getting in trouble.

Extend these lessons with child safety in your neighborhood and family-wide emergency preparedness.