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Plan Against Predators
How to Protect Your Child From Harm
By Julia Rosien
Peggy Vincent of Berkeley, Calif. uses newspaper articles or television news stories as a jumping off point to drop a line of information or an opinion into conversation. "I don't necessarily expect them to respond, nor do I even address the comment to them," she says. "But if they know I'm not uncomfortable with the issue, they'll feel more free to approach me when they do have something to say."
With work, soccer practice and swim meets, it may be hard to find time for a long discussion. But a few seconds of conversation dropped at appropriate places gives kids the message that it's OK to say those amazing words that are usually taboo. The subject isn't embarrassing, and they don't have to listen to a lecture every time they have a question.
"We've watched a few videos together about safety and how people can try to lure her away by asking for help," Watson says of her 11-year-old. "She knows her limits, and I pray a lot."
Watson's daughter has begun to go out on her own, and each time she learns a little more about the world. "She's never been afraid to share anything with us, and I hope it stays that way."
Like a tightly-coiled spring, preteenagers want to be set free. If the spring is held down and then released quickly without control, it jumps all over the place. Conversely, if it's guided gently and with care, it will stand straight and tall. Gently help your preteenager up, and the end result will be a well-rounded adult who listens to his or her heart.