Do Your Kids Know What To Do If They Get Lost?

Babble knows it's hard to think about the possibility of our young children becoming lost. Difficult to think about, but it happens a lot. Many times at the mall I spy a child walking around with a confused face as she tries to find her mother. Usually the mom is nearby and the fear is momentary. Other times I have had to help the child find her mother.

In a recent article, Babble outlines the 5 safety skills we need to teach our kids to use if they get lost.

1. Know your parent’s name and phone number.

2. Stay close to your safe adult.

The rule is: if you can see them, they can see you. This goes a long way in preventing children getting lost.

3. If you get lost, stop where you are and yell.

4. Look for a mom with kids and ask for help.

This is where it helps to know your name and phone number because you want that mom to try to call you. Why should they look for a mom with kids and not a dad with kids? We asked the same question of safety experts. It’s because statistically, this is the safest option. If the child is in a store, they can also ask a person at the cash register for help.

5. Know that you will be found.

It isn’t easy to talk about these things, especially if your kids are already anxious. But talking about these things actually helps to ease the anxiety because you’re giving kids tools that will make them feel empowered in the situation rather than helpless.

I think my son would know to do #2 and #3. However, I know he doesn't know I have a name other than Mommy and he has no idea about my phone number. After reading these tips, I'm going to start teaching him to memorize these crucial skills.

We all have a story about getting lost as a child. It's bound to happen, but teaching our kids these steps can help keep them safe until they are found (even if they're only lost for a few minutes).

Learn the reasoning behind each of Babble's tips by reading the complete article about things your kids need to know about getting lost so you can all feel confident and safe if your kids get lost.