That moment when you realize your child isn't next to you is one of the scariest a parent will experience, she said. Parents who find themselves panicking when their children are missing should take a deep breath. Teach children their full names. Be sure they know your first and last name so you can be paged in a store. Pretend you're lost and have the child tell you what to do.
Clues are name badges, cash registers and sales counters.
If no store employees or security guards are around, the child should ask a person with children to find an adult who can help - but don't go anywhere with the stranger. It's better to make a trip to the car - putting the packages in the trunk or under a blanket where they'll be less visible to burglars. Make sure to lock the car. Know what your child is wearing so, if you get separated, you can provide a quick description. It also could help you prove you're the right adult to claim the child.