The horrific four-hour abduction of an 11-year-old boy in Ranui will have parents worried about how to protect their children from predators.
• Teach your child how to get safely to and from school and other places they go - whether they walk, bike or go by bus. Make clear rules about getting home.
• Go to school with your child so that you can show them the safest route.
• Point out places they can go for help when walking to and from places like school and the park.
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• Boy, 11, abducted and sexually assaulted in horrific four-hour ordeal in West Auckland
• Teach the children to walk home together in twos or small groups, not alone. Make other arrangements if someone is away.
• Meet the parents of children in your area and keep in touch.
• Warn children about accepting rides or changing plans without your permission.
• Teach them the tricks would-be abductors use, such as offering money or asking for help.
• Encourage them to tell a trusted adult whenever anything or anyone makes them uncomfortable.
(Sources: New Zealand Police, KidSmartz)
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