Be an Informed Parent

When it comes to protecting your kids, there is a lot you can do. First, visit www.familywatchdog.us to locate what registered sex offenders are living in your neighborhood. Family Watch Dog provides invaluable information about sex offenders including where they live, where they work, and what they look like.

Here are some other invaluable tips that every parent can follow to assure your kids grow up in a safe and secure environment.

• Do background checks. If child is spending time with adults be sure to find out as much about them as you can.
• Be watchful. Don't just drop your child off at the sport practices or youth activities. Many predators avoid children who have parents that are active in their children's lives.
• Get involved. Volunteer to chaperone extracurricular activities like Boy or Girl Scouts and sporting events, especially those involving overnight trips. Make a strong effort to know your children's friends and their families.
• Be attentive. Notice changes in your child's behavior.
• Be alert. Pay attention to anyone who is focusing an unusual amount of attention to your child or yourself— buying gifts, phoning all the time, dropping by the house, etc.
• Take notes. Remember what your child is wearing each time they leave the house.
• Educate your child. Let your child know that sexual advances from adults are against the law. Build their confidence so they can say "no" to an adult. Encourage children to recognize, trust and follow their instincts—and listen to yours. Teach your child how to recognize a potentially dangerous action instead of a potentially dangerous person. Teach your children they can say "No!" by running away or kicking and/or screaming. It is the action that goes with the word that will keep your children safe.