Keeping Kids from Getting Lost (and What to Do If They Do)

Once you are reunited with your child, congratulate him for following your emergency instructions and don't yell at him for getting lost. Celebrate that you are together because of his smart and brave actions. This helps ensure that if your little one gets lost again, he will focus on getting back to you rather than remain intentionally lost in fear that you'll yell at him.

Later, when the trauma has subsided, discuss the incident and recall how you both felt. Reiterate that you are proud he was able to act correctly and get back to you quickly and safely. If he did not act correctly, remind him what to do next time and be sure to role play finding other mommies and asking for help.

Children do wander off; it is not a result of bad parenting or bad children. But as good parents, we can be proactive and avoid, or at least minimize, profound trauma and possible physical harm. Whether you are at a local mall or on vacation, every child can use assistance to help find her parents should she get lost. With these easy-to-use tips, you can keep your child safe wherever you go.