Predators VS Children

I've been sitting on this subject for a while now, but it's time to post it. I think because it's a difficult subject for any parent to deal with, and what parent wants to talk about predators to their children? Unfortunately it's a harsh reality how many predators share the same atmosphere with our kids. Although there is plenty of information for parents to educate themselves & their children, far too many would rather stick their head in the sand pretending it doesn't exist in "their world".

While working in the prison system for 8 years, I've had my fair share of interactions with sexual predators. I know details of too many cases, and let's just say, I wish I could erase the details in my mind but I can't. I can share some things that will hopefully get people to start thinking smarter about these predators & how to protect their children, or ANY child for that matter!

First, let me tell you what makes me crazy. Parents or Grandparents that drive around with decals on the back of their vehicle displaying the pride that they have for their kids. Now,there's nothing wrong with being proud of your kids, but think about this for a minute. I've seen decals with their kids name, what sport or activity their in, what school they go to (so now I know what area they live in), how many people are in the family (you know, the little stick family decals), and since I know what activities these kids are in, I know that they have a routine of practices to parks,....to fields,...games away from home,...are you getting the drift of where I'm coming from?

An inmate was talking to a co-worker of mine about how he could find out EVERYTHING about her in one day. She scoffed at him not believing a word. The next day, the same inmate came up to her and told her, her address, her birthday, how many kids she had, where they went to school, and on & on. And he did this in the comfort of his jail cell. Need I say any more?
OK, so that's just a pet peeve I have.

You may be thinking, you've taught your kids enough about "stranger danger", and that they would NEVER go off with someone they didn't know, right?.....
Well, think again. Click on this link, and watch the video. You can actually order it & it's free.

Safe From Harm

Internet safety is a HUGE concern! While living in New Mexico last year, a state police officer acquaintance of mine, told me that there were 11,000 online predators in Albuquerque alone. Now Albuquerque is not considered a very big city, so think about how many are in your city. I found this link with a VERY informative article about Internet predators, and I suggest it be read in full.

Internet Predators and Their Prey

"Sexting" is another area that we need to address with our kids. It's becoming an out of control situation that has serious and sometimes criminal consequences for young teens. Watch this shocking video from CBS News.

Dangers Of Teen "Sexting"

I can't stress enough, how important it is to be in CONSTANT communication with our kids! These issues need to be regurgitated over and over again with them, not just talked about one time than walk away as if you feel you've done the parental duty.
And if you don't have kids, IT DOESN'T MATTER! I'm sure you know someone who does. I love the saying, "it takes a community to raise a child", it also needs a community to keep them safe.

I'm asking for a favor when it comes to this post. FORWARD THIS! Please! To anyone you know that has kids & wants to keep them safe.

Thanks everyone!

Have an intimate day!

Jennifer