Chilling reminder: An intruder fatally shot an Ohio woman in her home and fled with her 4-year-old son, abandoning him at a highway rest stop.
The boy, however, was able to provide his address and parents’ names. His slain mother was discovered, and he was returned to his father.
Experts point to the tragedy as a reminder to teach children personal contact information.
“Every parent should aspire to make sure their 3-, 4- and 5-year olds can do the same thing,” said Ernie Allen, president of the National Center for Missing &Exploited Children.
When to teach: The age when children will be able to memorize the basics varies, but learning can start during the preschool years.
What to teach: Children should know their full name, complete address, and their parents’ names and phone numbers.
How to teach: Parents should tell children it’s important to know the information. Kids don’t need to hear about dangerous scenarios in which the information may help. Children learn through repetition, role-playing and even games. Try making a riddle out of the info, or turning it into a song.
Herald staff
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