Video:Keeping Track of Children in Crowds
with Kathy MooreCrowded places can elicit panic for families trying to keep track of each other, but there are things you can do to prepare your children and yourself. You'll make crowds a safer and more enjoyable experience for your entire family.See Transcript
Transcript:Keeping Track of Children in Crowds
Hi, I'm Kathy Moore for About.com Parenting. As any parent who has had a child duck inside a department store clothes rack knows, a lost child is a frightening experience. This program offers helpful tips on how to track your child in crowded places.Preparing Crowd Essentials
First,prepare before you leave by having a bag packed with all you will need, like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a small first aid kit. I find that a backpack works better than a diaper bag or purse in these situations because it leaves my arms and hands free to help my kids. I also make sure I have pockets in my outfit to hold spending money. Before we leave, I tuck a slip of paper with the child's name, address, and phone number into their pocket just in case.Dressing for Crowds
Dress your kids in bright or distinctive clothing. Fun hats are an easy way to do this. And remember everyone should wear comfortable shoes for walking.Establishing a Meeting Spot
When you get to the event, establish a meeting place, in case you do get separated. Make sure it is not only a safe place, but a visible one too. Have your child repeat where to meet to you before you leave the spot.Identify Safe Contacts
If there are security guards or police officers at the event, point them out to the kids. Have your child describe the police officer's clothing and explain to them that the police will always help them if they need it.Safe Crowd Practices
Do not send children to the bathroom unattended. Even if they are old enough not to need help, they should be escorted to and from the facilities.The best crowd tip that I have mastered is to keep your child in view at all times. To ensure that I can always see my kids, I have taught them that they must always be able to see me.
In large crowds, we form a human chain, or what my son calls our train. I hold his hand, he holds my daughter's hand, and so on. We take turns leading this train and then the kids do not feel as if they are being limited at all.
Crowd Backup
And, if all else fails, use a stroller. Though maneuvering a stroller in a crowd can be a challenge, it is safer than having small children wander off. Luckily, my kids still enjoy the ride.Whether you are going to the circus, the mall, or a big outdoor event, keeping your kids safe and close will help everyone enjoy the adventure.
Thanks for watching. To find out more visit us on the web at Parenting.About.com.
About videos are made available on an "as is" basis, subject to the User Agreement.