While online shopping has become a wonderful way to save sanity around the holidays, the inevitable trip to the mall or large store is always going to happen.  Nothing can get you out of the holiday spirit faster than crowds, lines and overheated stores.  But, there are always last minute gifts to pick up and of course there’s always the mandatory picture with Santa.

As children love to be curious explorers, one of a parent’s biggest fears is that their child will take off on their own and become lost in a large mall or store. While you will probably find your child in a matter of seconds, there are those instances where absolute panic sets in and your child is indeed lost.  The most important thing is to stay calm however you should immediately find a store clerk and notify him or her that your child is lost. Don’t hesitate!  

It’s important to discuss safety issues with your child before an incident can escalate to this level.  Repetition is helpful as children won’t always remember these things.  Make it a habit as soon as you get into a parking lot to turn off the car, get your children’s attention and review “the rules” with them right before you walk into the store.

• “Find a mommy or a female store clerk if you get lost” – Remind your children to immediately call out for you, using your full name rather than “mommy.”  More than likely you’re just around the corner or down the aisle but if you don’t respond tell them to either look for a store clerk or a woman with children.  (Statistically a woman is going to be the least likely to be a predator and it’s safer to have your child select someone to ask for help rather than someone approaching them.)

• “Never leave the store where you become lost” – Reassure your children that you will never leave the store where you were separated until you find them.  They should not assume you went back to the car and should not go outside the store by themselves or with anyone else.

• “What’s your name, home phone number and mommy’s cell phone number?” – Be sure that your child can repeat his or her first and last name, your home phone number, but most important, your cell phone number since you will actually be in the store when he or she gets lost.

• “Don’t let anyone take you out of the store” – Children usually recognize adults as persons of authority and follow their lead.  Teach your children that they have the right and should say no if an adult is making them feel uncomfortable or asking them to do something they don’t feel is right.  If someone, including a store employee, tries to take them out of the store, teach them to scream as loudly as possible “You’re not my mommy or daddy!  Help, police!”  Encourage them to kick, hit and bite if the person does not let go of them.

• “What’s the code word?” – Decide on a code word that the entire family remembers.  A predator could convince a child that he is going to take him or her to mommy who is outside of the store.  If the child knows that everyone must use the code word it will make the child resist.