Others are found murdered. Some never return home. When a child is missing, the family is suddenly thrust into a life of fear, chaos, confusion, and isolation. Many families do not know where to turn for help. They do not know whom to call, when to call, how to respond, what to do first, or what to expect.
Most families feel that they have been left to their own devices.
Parents of missing children, law enforcement professionals, representatives from State missing children clearinghouses, and staff of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children helped compile information families need so that it can be available when they need it most. The Guide is meant to remove some of the mystery and fear that accompany a child's absence. It tells families what they can expect when their child is missing and how they can build positive, solid working relationships with law enforcement, the media, volunteers, and others. It also gives parents and family members practical ideas and specific recommendations on how to cope during this traumatic time. These features make it easy for the reader to locate or return to material on specific topics.