"Stranger Danger" is a widely accepted way of teaching kids to protect themselves from harm. It rhymes, That's a popular way of helping kids remember important things. We parent all know the basics. Children are taught to be wary of "strangers."  Is this the best way to protect our kids? I don't believe so. What is a stranger in a child's mind? It's not necessarily someone they simply don't know. Well meaning parents inadvertently portray "strangers" as fearsome creatures. A child shouldn't be afraid to ask a policeman, postman, or store clerk for help. Crime statistics indicate the vast majority of crimes committed against children are perpetrated by someone the child knows. Simply making children fearful doesn't help them recognize potential danger. Kidsmartz.org has some great advice.

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