PARENTAL RESOURCES
As parents, we all want to do the best for our children, and that includes protecting them from becoming victims of human trafficking. We hope that the following resources will help you understand the world of your child and better be able to protect them from dangers they are unaware of.
P.A.N.T.S
P.A.N.T.S. is a simple acronym that you can use to teach your young children how to protect themselves from people trying to take advantage of them.
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P - Privates are Private
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A - Always Remember Your Body Belongs to You
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N - No Means No
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T - Talk About Secrets That Upset You
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S - Speak Up, Someone Can Help
Click the Button below to download a PDF version of the P.A.N.T.S. Chart!
Family Tech Contract
If YOU – (not your child) feel they are ready for a smartphone, a tech contract is a great way to talk about online safety, the potential dangers and the importance of open, ongoing communication around the device and your child’s digital life.
Use the template provided to begin the conversation! A tech contract will help your kids understand the need for self-control and all that comes with an increase in responsibility. This will show them that there are consequences when contracts are broken (and you MUST enforce whatever consequences you set for breaking the rules – no phone for 1 week is always pretty effective) and help them learn that you mean what you say.
Click the Button below to download a PDF version of the Family Tech Contract!
How Do Predators Groom Kids?
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They select a victim
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They gain access to and isolate the child
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They develop trust with the child, family, and community members
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They desensitize the child to sexual content and physical touch
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They maintain control after the abuse
Video Game Danger
While video games can be a fun treat for your children to enjoy, it is also a dangerous place, full of individuals who want to gain the trust of your child so that they can cause them harm.
Many modern video games include sophisticated communication features. Popular games like Fortnite, Call of Duty, Minecraft, Roblox, and Among Us are rife with predators, and these games can be played on a variety of consoles, including mobile smart phones.
How to Reduce Online Game Danger
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Play in Public Places: Using electronics in public areas can increase parental oversight in the child's online activities, providing a layer of protection.
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Set a Screen Time Limit: Studies show that kids who spend more time online are more likely to talk to predators. Consider online time limits for your kids to reduce their risk.
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Set Accounts to Private: Parental controls can set most gaming accounts to Private, hiding the username of the player.
Kids Online Safety Act
Everyday, kids are taken advantage of online. There is something we can do to fight these terrible acts. The United States House of Representatives passed H.R. 7891, which regulates online platforms regarding the content they provide to children. This legislation is currently awaiting a full vote before the United States Senate. Click the button below to learn more, and write your state's senators about the importance of passing this legislation.
TikTok Dangers
TikTok is a social media video app that is very popular amongst teenagers and young adults. There are a number of dangers that you should be aware of before allowing you child to download this app.
By using TikTok, kids can very easily be targeted by predators and become the victims of cyberbullying. They can also be subjected to inappropriate content, despite having never followed said content.
TikTok is also famous for its viral challenges, some of which are featured below, and most of which are dangerous to your child's physical health.
Skullbreaker Challenge
Corncob Challenge
Scalp-Pop Challenge
Basketball Beer Challenge
Full Face Wax Challenge
Stand Up Challenge
Burning Pile Challenge
Cinnamon Challenge