Never open the door to someone they do not know. Never tell someone at the door or on the phone that the parents are away. Instruct them to give details to the police telephone operator and remain on the line until the police arrive. Parents should know the whereabouts of their young children at all times and be very cautious about allowing them to play unsupervised. While the threat of abduction is frightening, experts tell us that child abductions by strangers are extremely rare.
Children are far more frequently molested by someone they, and many times their parents know.
Let them know that they should tell you about anything that happens to them which makes them feel frightened or uneasy, and that you will be supportive and protect them. Trust your child's instincts and be alert for signs of abuse such as emotional changes or unexplained anxiety or hostility toward a baby-sitter, relative, or friend. Do not force your child to hug or kiss adult family members or friends. Teach them they have the right to refuse unwanted physical advances. Parents should be watchful for suspisious persons hanging around schools and places where children play.