Getting Separated from Your Child

Knowing Your Family Car

In today's busy world even the most cautious, protective parent can be separated from their child. This situation is scary for the parent, but can be terrifying for the child. There are several things you can teach your child that will help prepare them for this type of situation. Today's tip focuses on parking lots. First, teach your child to not wander the parking lot looking for you. Instead, they should go back to the store entrance where they will be out of traffic and more easily seen by you.

Also, it is surprising how many children cannot accurately describe their family’s car. Sometimes we overlook the fact that a three to five year old spends a greater amount of their time on the inside of the car looking out. The size of parking lots associated with malls and shopping centers makes this knowledge crucial for the safety of small children. If a young child is separated from their family, they could feasibly be within sight of your car and never notice.

Two additional assets for your child’s awareness include always identifying a permanent landmark near the area you have parked and having a specific picture, color sticker, or other item in the window for them to see. You can help your child by having them draw a picture of your car and color it so they are aware of its appearance. In future articles we will discuss what your child can do if lost in a store or other area. Until next time...Be Safe.

Grand Master Brandon Richards, Ph. D.
Seattle Tae Kwon Do

www.seattletaekwondo.com