Cyberbullying

In addition to Child Identification, we here at Ident-A-Kid are also concerned with your child’s physical and mental safety. Not only does Cyberbullying have potentially dangerous psychological implications for your child, but your child’s physical safety may become an issue as well. Bullies are notorious for tormenting their victims face to face—at school, on the playground, in sports. But now, cyberbullying (or online bullying) opens the door to 24-hour harassment through computers, cell phones, gaming consoles, or other Internet-enabled means. Below is some information from Microsoft.com and Symantec.com about Cyberbullying and how to stop it.

Talk with your kids about cyberbullying.

Ask your kids what they're doing online and encourage them to report bullying to you. Promise that you will take action on their behalf and explain what you will do. Reassure them that you won't curtail their phone or computer privileges.

Keep the family computer in a central location.

If your kids play video games, keep Internet-connected game consoles in a central location also. Teenagers have so many ways to access the Internet that putting the computer in a central spot isn't always effective. With older kids, it's especially important to have frank discussions.
Look for signs of online bullying- for example, getting upset when online or a reluctance to go to school.

Don't tolerate cyberbullying at home.

Let your children know they should never, under any circumstances, bully someone. Make the consequences clear.

Keep passwords secret.

Urge your kids not to share passwords or other information that could be used to bully them, or to loan their cell phones or laptops.

Encourage your children to make friends and to help friends look out for each other. Cyberbullies are less likely to target those whom they perceive have strong friendships. If a victim has friends who rally around him or her, the bullying usually stops.

Get help from technology.

Turn on the safety features available in most programs and services.
If your child is a victim of online bullying, there are a number of escalating steps you can take, says Nancy E. Willard, author of the book Cyberbullying and Cyberthreats: Responding to the challenge of online social cruelty, threats, and distress.

Identify and block

First, ask your child not to respond or retaliate, no matter how tempting it may be to "fight back." If you can identify who's cyberbullying your child, block any further communications. In your instant message program go to People or Friends in the main menu and choose Block User or Remove Friend, for instance. In your email program, add the offending email address to your blacklist. For assistance in online sleuthing, contact WiredSafety.org, whose trained volunteers can also help you try to track down who's behind the online harassment.

Set boundaries

You, not your kids, should also contact the bully (or bullies) and demand the offending behavior stop. If you don't know their real identity, send an email or IM. Warn them that you will contact their parents or school, too, if the behavior continues.

File a complaint

Most cyberbullying behavior-harassment, threats, invasion of privacy, stalking-are violations of a web site or Internet service provider's "terms of service." You can file a complaint with the service and that could lead to the suspension or termination of the cyberbully's (or his or her parents') Internet access.

Contact the school

If you know the bully attends the same school as your child, teachers and administrators might be able to help. Keep in mind, however, that due to free speech rights, schools often have little leverage over what goes on outside the classroom. Some schools are incorporating anti-cyberbullying terms into students' online access agreements, so if the bully contacted your child from a school computer, he or she could be in big trouble. Make sure to report the incident either way.

Send a certified letter

If you've done all you can and the bullying hasn't stopped, send the child's parents a certified "cease and desist" letter. Along with the letter, include computer print-outs of the bullying behavior, such as emails or IM transcripts. Ask the parents to step in and put a stop to the cyberbullying. Willard, who is also a lawyer and director of the Center for Safe and Responsible Internet Use, says certifying the letter proves the parents are aware of their child's behavior and can be held responsible if it still doesn't stop.

Call an attorney

In the worst case scenario, a lawyer can help you consider filing a civil suit against bullies and/or their parents for defamation, harassment or other causes. Sometimes the threat of a suit is enough to dissuade cyberbullies.

Contact the local police

If there's any evidence that the cyberbully's tactics include criminal actions, such as hate crimes, physical threats or talk of brandishing weapons at school, contact your local police immediately. Cyberbullies who post surreptitious locker-room photos of their victims online can also be brought up on charges of child pornography. Make sure to print examples of the offending behavior and pass it on to the police. The police can use your complaint to gather any other admissible evidence from your child's computer, if need be.

Talk with your kids about what's acceptable

Anne Collier, editor of NetFamilyNews.org, an email newsletter about online safety for kids, says to truly stop cyberbullying, however, you have to first know what's happening when your kids are online. Kids are often reluctant to tell parents about cyberbullying or anything else that goes on online for fear parents will only make things worse. Others feel that what they do on the Internet is "private." Williard says that nothing could be further from the truth: "Kids need to know that the Internet is a public space and need to treat it as such."

Willard suggests that you get to know your child's screen names and email addresses and don't hesitate to "Google" (or search) for your kid's online identities. She also says parents should be up front-so tell your kids you'll be checking up on them periodically. And communicate with your kid's friends' parents, she says. Setting expectations not just for your child but everyone else can avoid future problems.

"It takes a digital village to raise a child, these days," she says.

Collier adds that you can draft an "acceptable use policy" or contract for the home computer or other text-messaging devices as well. The policy should address every aspect of venturing into cyberspace, including how long your children will stay online each day. Or what web sites, messaging services and chat rooms are acceptable destinations. Also discuss what personal information they can share online, including photos. "Ask your child, 'What will you do if…?' and then write mutually acceptable answers into the contract," Collier advises. A signed promise to be kind to others online and to report cyberbullying (of themselves or others) could go a long way towards preventing problems before they start.

For more information about Cyberbullying and what to do, visit:
http://www.symantec.com/norton/familyresources/resources.jsp?title=ar_deal_with_cyberbullies

Or
http://www.microsoft.com/protect/parents/social/griefers.aspx

Winter Weather Safety Tips

In addition to Child Identification, we here at Ident-A-Kid are concerned with your child’s health and safety during the winter season. Below are some valuable tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) on how to keep your children safe and warm.

What to Wear

• Dress infants and children warmly for outdoor activities. Several thin layers will keep them dry and warm. Clothing for children should consist of thermal long johns, turtlenecks, one or two shirts, pants, sweater, coat, warm socks, boots, gloves or mittens, and a hat.
• The rule of thumb for older babies and young children is to dress them in one more layer of clothing than an adult would wear in the same conditions.
• Blankets, quilts, pillows, sheepskins and other loose bedding may contribute to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and should be kept out of an infant’s sleeping environment. Sleep clothing like one-piece sleepers is preferred.
• If a blanket must be used to keep a sleeping infant warm, it should be tucked in around the crib mattress, reaching only as far as your baby’s chest, so the infant's face is less likely to become covered by bedding.

Hypothermia

• Hypothermia develops when a child's temperature falls below normal due to exposure to cold. It often happens when a youngster is playing outdoors in extremely cold weather without wearing proper clothing or when clothes get wet.
• As hypothermia sets in, the child may shiver and become lethargic and clumsy. His speech may become slurred and his body temperature will decline.
• If you suspect your child is hypothermic, call 911 at once. Until help arrives, take the child indoors, remove any wet clothing, and wrap him in blankets or warm clothes.

Frostbite

• Frostbite happens when the skin and outer tissues become frozen. This condition tends to happen on extremities like the fingers, toes, ears and nose. They may become pale, gray and blistered. At the same time, the child may complain that her skin burns or has become numb.
• If frostbite occurs, bring the child indoors and place the frostbitten parts of her body in warm (not hot) water. 104° Fahrenheit (about the temperature of most hot tubs) is recommended. Warm washcloths may be applied to frostbitten nose, ears and lips.
• Do not rub the frozen areas.
• After a few minutes, dry and cover him with clothing or blankets. Give him something warm to drink.
• If the numbness continues for more than a few minutes, call your doctor.

Winter Health

• If your child suffers from winter nosebleeds, try using a cold air humidifier in the child's room at night. Saline nose drops may help keep tissues moist. If bleeding is severe or recurrent, consult your pediatrician.
• Many pediatricians feel that bathing two or three times a week is enough for an infant’s first year. More frequent baths may dry out the skin, especially during the winter.
• Cold weather does not cause colds or flu. But the viruses that cause colds and flu tend to be more common in the winter, when children are in school and are in closer contact with each other. Frequent hand washing and teaching your child to sneeze or cough into the bend of her elbow may help reduce the spread of colds and flu.
• Children between 6 months and 18 years of age should get the influenza vaccine to reduce their risk of catching the flu.

Winter Sports and Activities

Set reasonable time limits on outdoor play to prevent frostbite. Have children come inside periodically to warm up.

Ice Skating

• Allow children to skate only on approved surfaces. Check for signs posted by local police or recreation departments, or call your local police department to find out which areas have been approved.
• Advise your child to: skate in the same direction as the crowd; avoid darting across the ice; never skate alone; not chew gum or eat candy while skating.
• Consider having your child wear a helmet while ice skating.

Sledding

• Keep sledders away from motor vehicles.
• Children should be supervised while sledding.
• Keep young children separated from older children.
• Sledding feet first or sitting up, instead of lying down head-first, may prevent head injuries.
• Consider having your child wear a helmet while sledding.
• Use steerable sleds, not snow disks or inner tubes.
• Sleds should be structurally sound and free of sharp edges and splinters, and the steering mechanism should be well lubricated.
• Sled slopes should be free of obstructions like trees or fences, be covered in snow not ice, not be too steep (slope of less than 30º), and end with a flat runoff.
• Avoid sledding in crowded areas.
Snow Skiing and Snowboarding
• Children should be taught to ski or snowboard by a qualified instructor in a program designed for children.
• Never ski or snowboard alone.
• Young children should always be supervised by an adult. Older children’s need for adult supervision depends on their maturity and skill. If older children are not with an adult, they should always at least be accompanied by a friend.
• The AAP recommends that children under age 7 not snowboard.
• Consider wearing a helmet.
• Equipment should fit the child. Skiers should wear safety bindings that are adjusted at least every year. Snowboarders should wear gloves with built-in wrist guards.
• Slopes should fit the ability and experience of the skier or snowboarder. Avoid crowded slopes.
• Avoid skiing in areas with trees and other obstacles.

Snowmobiling

• The AAP recommends that children under age 16 not operate snowmobiles and that children under age 6 never ride on snowmobiles.
• Do not use a snowmobile to pull a sled or skiers.
• Wear goggles and a safety helmet approved for use on motorized vehicles like motorcycles.
• Travel at safe speeds.
• Never use alcohol or other drugs before or during snowmobiling.
• Never snowmobile alone or at night.
• Stay on marked trails, away from roads, water, railroads and pedestrians.

Sun Protection

The sun’s rays can still cause sunburn in the winter, especially when they reflect off snow. Make sure to cover your child’s exposed skin with sunscreen.

Fire Protection

Winter is a time when household fires occur. It is a good time to remember to:
• Buy and install smoke alarms on every floor of your home
• Test smoke alarms monthly
• Practice fire drills with your children

For more information about weather safety and child health, visit www.aap.org

Holiday Safety Tips

In addition to Child Identification, we here at Ident-A-Kid are concerned with your child’s safety during the holidays. Below are some safety tips for the holidays from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for you and your family.

General Christmas Safety Tips

• Make sure Christmas trees are well anchored and watered so they do not become a fire hazard.
• Keep all breakable Christmas ornaments, electrical extensions and burning objects (candles, incense and potpourri pots) out of small children’s reach.

• Make sure your fireplace is screened and all trees, presents, and children are kept away from fire.

• When wrapping presents keep scissors out of children’s hands.

• Make sure infants and toddlers don’t play with ribbon.

• When involving children in holiday baking make sure adults handle all of the hot items.

• While shopping never let your children out of your sight.

• If your child is lost in a mall or department store, make sure you have your child’s Ident-A-Kid card available and demand that the store take appropriate action.

• Follow all age guidelines on toys and do not deviate.

• Teach children not to succumb to temptation of toys or candy in a shopping environment.

• Request an escort back to your car when you are finished shopping at night.

• Never leave your children unattended in a car.

• Create well-supervised activities for children during Christmas break

Toy Safety Tips for Holiday Shoppers

• Select toys to suit the age, abilities, skills and interest level of the intended child.

• For infants, toddlers and all children who still mouth objects, avoid toys with small parts that could pose a fatal choking hazard.

• Look for sturdy construction, such as tightly secured eyes, noses and other potential small parts.

• For all children under age 8, avoid toys that have sharp edges and points.

• Do not purchase electric toys with heating elements for children under age 8.

• Be a label reader. Look for labels that give age recommendations and use that information as a guide.

• Check instructions for clarity. They should be clear to you, and when appropriate, to the child.

• Immediately discard plastic wrappings on toys, which can cause suffocation, before they become deadly playthings

For more information about safety during the holidays, visit http://www.cpsc.gov/

Tips on How to Help a Child Who is Choking

In addition to Child Identification, we here at Ident-A-Kid are concerned with your child’s physical well-being. Children are known for putting things in their mouths that are too small and can block the airway. Due to this, you and your family should be aware of some general CPR techniques. Below is some information provided by the American Heart Association about how to tell when your child is choking and what you should do.
Signs of Choking
Choking occurs when something blocks the airway. When the airway is completely blocked, the child cannot breathe. Choking can be a frightening emergency. But if you act quickly, you can help the child breathe.
If the child can speak or cough loudly, the child's airway is only partly blocked. You should not try to open the airway. If you are worried about the child's breathing, phone 9-1-1.
Signs of choking in the child with a completely blocked airway are
• The child suddenly begins to cough, gag or have high-pitched, noisy breathing
• An older child may make the choking sign (holding the neck with one or both hands)
• The child has bluish lips or skin
Actions to Relieve Choking in a Child
When a child is choking and can't breathe or speak, you must give abdominal thrusts (the Heimlich maneuver). The Heimlich maneuver pushes air from the child's lungs like a cough. This can help remove the blocking object. You should give abdominal thrusts until the object is forced out or the victim becomes unresponsive.
1. If you think a child is choking, ask the child "Are you choking?" If he nods, tell him you are going to help.
2. Kneel or stand firmly behind him and wrap your arms around him so that your hands are in front.
3. Make a fist with one hand.
4. Put the thumb side of your fist slightly above the navel (belly button) and well below the breastbone.
5. Grasp the fist with your other hand and give quick upward thrusts into his abdomen.
6. Give thrusts until the object is forced out and he can breathe, cough, or talk or until he stops responding.
If the choking is not relieved, the child will become unresponsive. When the child becomes unresponsive, shout for help, lower the child to the ground, and start CPR. If someone else is present, send that person to phone 9-1-1 while you start CPR.
The steps of CPR of the child who has become unresponsive after choking are the same, with one addition.
1. Yell for help. If someone comes, send that person to phone your emergency response number (or 911) and get the AED if available.
2. Lower the victim to the ground, faceup. If you are alone with the child victim, start the steps of CPR.
3. Every time you open the airway to give breaths, open the victim's mouth wide and look for the object. If you see an object, remove it with your fingers. If you do not see an object, keep giving sets of 30 compressions and two breaths until an AED arrives, the victim starts to move, or trained help takes over.
4. After about five cycles or two minutes, if you are alone, leave the child victim to call your emergency response number (or 911) and get the AED if available.
Chest compressions may force the object out. If you are alone with the child and these steps don't work after about one minute, phone 9-1-1.

Reviewed/Updated: 10/28/2008
For more information, visit http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3025002 or www.americanheart.org

Childhood Bullying

In addition to Child Identification, we here at Ident-A-Kid are also concerned with your child’s physical and emotional well-being. Bullies can seriously disrupt a child’s emotional and psychological wellness. A good way to guard against these disruptions is to simply be aware that bullying is a serious problem and not just something to be cast aside as normal child behavior. Below is a good description of bullying, why kids bully, signs that your child is being bullied, and some advice to give your children about how to deal with bullies or avoid bullies provided by kidshealth.org.

What Is Bullying?

Most kids have been teased by a sibling or a friend at some point. And it's not usually harmful when done in a playful, friendly, and mutual way, and both kids find it funny. But when teasing becomes hurtful, unkind, and constant, it crosses the line into bullying and needs to stop.
Bullying is intentional tormenting in physical, verbal, or psychological ways. It can range from hitting, shoving, name-calling, threats, and mocking to extorting money and treasured possessions. Some kids bully by shunning others and spreading rumors about them. Others use email, chat rooms, instant messages, social networking websites, and text messages to taunt others or hurt their feelings.

It's important to take bullying seriously and not just brush it off as something that kids have to "tough out." The effects can be serious and affect kids' sense of self-worth and future relationships. In severe cases, bullying has contributed to tragedies, such as school shootings.

Why Do Kids Bully?

Kids bully for a variety of reasons. Sometimes they pick on kids because they need a victim — someone who seems emotionally or physically weaker, or just acts or appears different in some way — to feel more important, popular, or in control. Although some bullies are bigger or stronger than their victims, that's not always the case.

Sometimes kids torment others because that's the way they’ve been treated. They may think their behavior is normal because they come from families or other settings where everyone regularly gets angry, shouts, or calls names. Some popular TV shows even seem to promote meanness — people are "voted off," shunned, or ridiculed for their appearance or lack of talent.

Signs of Bullying

Unless your child tells you about bullying — or has visible bruises or injuries — it can be difficult to figure out if it's happening.

But there are some warning signs. You might notice your child acting differently or seeming anxious, or not eating, sleeping well, or doing the things that he or she usually enjoys. When kids seem moodier or more easily upset than usual, or when they start avoiding certain situations, like taking the bus to school, it may be because of a bully.

If you suspect bullying but your child is reluctant to open up, find opportunities to bring up the issue in a more roundabout way. For instance, you might see a situation on a TV show and use it as a conversation starter, asking "What do you think of this?" or "What do you think that person should have done?" This might lead to questions like: "Have you ever seen this happen?" or "Have you ever experienced this?" You might want to talk about any experiences you or another family member had at that age.

Let your child know that if he or she is being bullied — or sees it happening to someone else — it's important to talk to someone about it, whether it's you, another adult (a teacher, school counselor, or family friend), or a sibling.

Helping Kids

If your child tells you about a bully, focus on offering comfort and support, no matter how upset you are. Kids are often reluctant to tell adults about bullying. They feel embarrassed and ashamed that it's happening. They worry that their parents will be disappointed.

Sometimes kids feel like it's their own fault, that if they looked or acted differently it wouldn't be happening. Sometimes they're scared that if the bully finds out that they told, it will get worse. Others are worried that their parents won't believe them or do anything about it. Or kids worry that their parents will urge them to fight back when they're scared to.

Praise your child for being brave enough to talk about it. Remind your child that he or she isn't alone — a lot of people get bullied at some point. Emphasize that it's the bully who is behaving badly — not your child. Reassure your child that you will figure out what to do about it together.
Sometimes an older sibling or friend can help deal with the situation. It may help your daughter to hear how the older sister she idolizes was teased about her braces and how she dealt with it. An older sibling or friend may also be able to give you some perspective on what's happening at school, or wherever the bullying is happening, and help you figure out the best solution.

Take it seriously if your hear that the bullying will get worse if the bully finds out that your child told. Sometimes it's useful to approach the bully's parents. In other cases, teachers or counselors are the best ones to contact first. If you've tried those methods and still want to speak to the bullying child's parents, it's best to do so in a context where a school official, such as a counselor, can mediate.

Many states have bullying laws and policies. Find out about the laws in your community. In certain cases, if you have serious concerns about your child's safety, you may need to contact legal authorities.

Advice for Kids

The key to helping kids is providing strategies that deal with bullying on an everyday basis and also help restore their self-esteem and regain a sense of dignity.

It may be tempting to tell a kid to fight back. After all, you're angry that your child is suffering and maybe you were told to "stand up for yourself" when you were young. And you may worry that your child will continue to suffer at the hands of the bully.

But it's important to advise kids not to respond to bullying by fighting or bullying back. It can quickly escalate into violence, trouble, and someone getting injured. Instead, it's best to walk away from the situation, hang out with others, and tell an adult.

Here are some other strategies to discuss with kids that can help improve the situation and make them feel better:

Avoid the bully and use the buddy system. Use a different bathroom if a bully is nearby and don't go to your locker when there is nobody around. Make sure you have someone with you so that you're not alone with the bully. Buddy up with a friend on the bus, in the hallways, or at recess — wherever the bully is. Offer to do the same for a friend.

Hold the anger. It's natural to get upset by the bully, but that's what bullies thrive on. It makes them feel more powerful. Practice not reacting by crying or looking red or upset. It takes a lot of practice, but it's a useful skill for keeping off of a bully's radar. Sometimes kids find it useful to practice "cool down" strategies such as counting to 10, writing down their angry words, taking deep breaths or walking away. Sometimes the best thing to do is to teach kids to wear a "poker face" until they are clear of any danger (smiling or laughing may provoke the bully).

Act brave, walk away, and ignore the bully. Firmly and clearly tell the bully to stop, then walk away. Practice ways to ignore the hurtful remarks, like acting uninterested or texting someone on your cell phone. By ignoring the bully, you're showing that you don't care. Eventually, the bully will probably get bored with trying to bother you.

Tell an adult. Teachers, principals, parents, and lunchroom personnel at school can all help stop bullying.

Talk about it. Talk to someone you trust, such as a guidance counselor, teacher, sibling, or friend. They may offer some helpful suggestions, and even if they can't fix the situation, it may help you feel a little less alone.

Remove the incentives. If the bully is demanding your lunch money, start bringing your lunch. If he's trying to get your music player, don't bring it to school.

Reaching Out

At home you can lessen the impact of the bullying. Encourage your kids to get together with friends that help build their confidence. Help them meet other kids by joining clubs or sports programs. And find activities that can help a child feel confident and strong. Maybe it's a self-defense class like karate or a movement or other gym class.

And just remember: as upsetting as bullying can be for you and your family, lots of people and resources are available to help.

To learn more about child safety and bullying, visit kidshealth.org or http://kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/behavior/bullies.html#

Bicycle Safety Tips!

In addition to Child Identification, we here at Ident-A-Kid are also concerned with your child’s physical safety. Each year approximately 250 children ages 14 and under are killed in bicycle-related incidents. 90% of bicycle related deaths (all ages) are the result of collisions with motor vehicles. Children between the ages of 5 and 14 have a death rate more than two times the death rate of all other bicycle riders. The fatality rate rises rapidly beginning at about age 4 and is the highest among 12 to 14-year olds. In 1994, almost 400,000 children ages 14 and under were treated in emergency rooms for bicycle related injuries. Approximately 10 percent of these injuries were related to collisions with motor vehicles. Children ages 14 and under are approximately six times more likely to be injured than children ages 15 and older from bicycle-related crashes. Children ages 4 and under are also at risk from bicycle related deaths and injuries. In 1993, six children were killed, more than 10,000 suffered from head injuries and more than 22,000 suffered from face injuries. Below are some rules about bicycle safety that you can teach your children, from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Wear a Properly Fitted Bicycle Helmet. Protect your brain, save your life. For more information see the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration publication “Easy Steps to Properly Fit a Bicycle Helmet.”

Adjust Your Bicycle to Fit. Stand over your bicycle. There should be 1 to 2 inches between you and the top tube (bar) if using a road bike and 3 to 4 inches if a mountain bicycle. The seat should be level front to back. The seat height should be adjusted to allow a slight bend at the knee when the leg is fully extended. The handlebar height should be at the same level with the seat.

Check Your Equipment. Before riding, inflate tires properly and check that your brakes work.

See and Be Seen. Whether daytime, dawn, dusk, foul weather, or at night, you need to be seen by others. Wearing white has not been shown to make you more visible. Rather, always wear neon, fluorescent, or other bright colors when riding day or night. Also wear something that reflects light, such as reflective tape or markings, or flashing lights. Remember, just because you can see a driver doesn’t mean the driver can see you.

Control Your Bicycle. Always ride with at least one hand on the handlebars. Carry books and other items in a bicycle carrier or backpack.

Watch for and Avoid Road Hazards. Be on the lookout for hazards such as potholes, broken glass, gravel, puddles, leaves, and dogs. All these hazards can cause a crash. If you are riding with friends and you are in the lead, yell out and point to the hazard to alert the riders behind you.

Avoid Riding at Night. It is far more dangerous to ride at night than during the day because you are harder for others to see. If you have to ride at night, wear something that makes you more easily seen by others. Make sure you have reflectors on the front and rear of your bicycle (white lights on the front and red rear reflectors are required by law in many States), in addition to reflectors on your tires, so others can see you.

Rules of the Road – Bicycling on the Road
Bicycles in many States are considered vehicles, and cyclists have the same rights and the same responsibilities to follow the rules of the road as motorists. When riding, always:

Go With the Traffic Flow. Ride on the right in the same direction as other vehicles. Go with the flow – not against it.

Obey All Traffic Laws. A bicycle is a vehicle and you’re a driver. When you ride in the street, obey all traffic signs, signals, and lane markings.

Yield to Traffic When Appropriate. Almost always, drivers on a smaller road must yield (wait) for traffic on a major or larger road. If there is no stop sign or traffic signal and you are coming from a smaller roadway (out of a driveway, from a sidewalk, a bike path, etc.), you must slow down and look to see if the way is clear before proceeding. This also means yielding to pedestrians who have already entered a crosswalk.

Be Predictable. Ride in a straight line, not in and out of cars. Signal your moves to others.

Stay Alert at All Times. Use your eyes AND ears. Watch out for potholes, cracks, wet leaves, storm grates, railroad tracks, or anything that could make you lose control of your bike. You need your ears to hear traffic and avoid dangerous situations; don’t wear a headset when you ride.

Look Before Turning. When turning left or right, always look behind you for a break in traffic, then signal before making the turn. Watch for left- or right-turning traffic.

Watch for Parked Cars. Ride far enough out from the curb to avoid the unexpected from parked cars (like doors opening, or cars pulling out).

Sidewalk versus Street Riding
The safest place for bicycle riding is on the street, where bicycles are expected to follow the same rules of the road as motorists and ride in the same direction.

Children less than 10 years old, however, are not mature enough to make the decisions necessary to safely ride in the street.

Children less than 10 years old are better off riding on the sidewalk.

For anyone riding on a sidewalk:

Check the law in your State or jurisdiction to make sure sidewalk riding is allowed.

Watch for vehicles coming out of or turning into driveways.

Stop at corners of sidewalks and streets to look for cars and to make sure the drivers
see you before crossing.

Enter a street at a corner and not between parked cars. Alert pedestrians that you are near by saying, “Excuse me,” or, “Passing on your left,” or use a bell or horn.

For more information about bicycle safety for you and your child, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/

Tips to Stop the Spread of Germs

In addition to child identification and child safety, we here at Ident-A-Kid are also concerned with the physical health of your child. Below are some tips from The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov on how to prevent and stop the spreading of germs.

How Germs Spread

The main way that illnesses like colds and flu are spread is from person to person in respiratory droplets of coughs and sneezes. This is called "droplet spread."

This can happen when droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air and are deposited on the mouth or nose of people nearby. Sometimes germs also can be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets from another person on a surface like a desk and then touches his or her own eyes, mouth or nose before washing their hands. We know that some viruses and bacteria can live 2 hours or longer on surfaces like cafeteria tables, doorknobs, and desks.

How to Stop the Spread of Germs

In a nutshell: take care to

• Cover your mouth and nose

• Clean your hands often

• Remind your children to practice healthy habits, too

Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing

Cough or sneeze into a tissue and then throw it away. Cover your cough or sneeze if you do not have a tissue. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.

The "Happy Birthday" song helps keep your hands clean?

Not exactly. Yet we recommend that when you wash your hands -- with soap and warm water -- that you wash for 15 to 20 seconds. That's about the same time it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice!

Alcohol-Based Hand Wipes and Gel Sanitizers Work Too

When soap and water are not available, alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers may be used. You can find them in most supermarkets and drugstores. If using gel, rub your hands until the gel is dry. The gel doesn't need water to work; the alcohol in it kills the germs on your hands.

Germs and Children

Remind children to practice healthy habits too, because germs spread, especially at school.

The flu has caused high rates of absenteeism among students and staff in our country's 119,000 schools. Influenza is not the only respiratory infection of concern in schools -- nearly 22 million schools days are lost each year to the common cold alone. However, when children practice healthy habits, they miss fewer days of school.

More Facts, Figures, and How-Tos
For more information on how to prevent and stop the spreading of germs, visit http://www.cdc.gov/germstopper/home_work_school.htm
Or
www.cdc.gov

Here at Ident-A-Kid, in addition to child identification, we are also concerned with your child’s safety when going to and from school. As you and your children settle into the school routine, important safety tips and precautions should be given top priority. In addition to making sure that you have an up-to-date Ident-A-Kid card for your child’s Identification, you should make sure that you are aware of some tips that can aid you in keeping your child safe. Also, your child should know some important rules about going to and from school in order to keep them safe. Below are some tips and rules about going to and from school from a publication put out by The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. These, and other tips and rules for child safety, can be found at www.missingkids.com.

Know the Rules...For Going To and From School More Safely

Every day millions of children take to the streets and highways to get to and from school. For many children this experience is a new one and they may not understand or be able to use the safety rules. Young children do not have the same frame of reference for safety as adults do. They may not “look before they leap,” which is why it is so important for families to supervise young children and practice safety skills with their older children to make certain they really know and understand them. The tips noted below will help prepare for a safer journey.

Tips for Parents and Guardians

1. Instruct your children to always TAKE A FRIEND, always stay in well-lit areas, never take shortcuts, and never go into isolated areas. Teach them to stay aware of their surroundings and observe all traffic rules in place to more safely share the roads and sidewalks with others.

2. Walk the route to and from school with your children pointing out landmarks and safe places to go if they’re being followed or need help. Make the walk to and from school a "teachable moment" and chance to put their skills to the test. Make a map with your children showing acceptable routes to and from school. If your children wait for a bus, wait with them or make arrangements for supervision at the bus stop.

3. If anyone bothers your children or makes them feel scared, uncomfortable, or confused, while going to or from school, teach your children to trust their feelings, immediately get away from that person, and TELL you or another trusted adult. If an adult approaches your children for help or directions, remember grownups needing help should not ask children for help; they should ask other adults. Instruct your children to never accept money or gifts from anyone unless you have told them it is OKAY to accept in each instance.

4. Even though there can be more safety in numbers it is still not safe for young children to walk to and from school, especially if they must take isolated routes anytime during the day or in darkness. Always provide supervision for your young children to help ensure their safe arrival to and from school.

5. Instruct your children to leave items and clothing with their name on them at home. If anyone calls out their name, teach them to not be fooled or confused. Teach your children about the tricks someone may try to use to confuse them or engage them in conversation. Children should also be taught that they do not need to be polite if approached and to get out of the situation as quickly and safely as possible

6. Ensure current and accurate emergency contact information is on file for your children at their school. If you, or another trusted family member or friend, need to pick your children up, make sure to follow the school’s departure procedures. These procedures need to include the school’s confirmation of your children’s departure with only those you authorize to pick them up.
7. Teach your children if anyone tries to take them somewhere they should quickly get away and yell, “This person is trying to take me away” or “This person is not my father/mother/guardian.” Teach your children to make a scene and every effort to get away by kicking, screaming, and resisting if anyone tries to grab them.

8. Teach your children if anyone follows them on foot to get away from that person as quickly as possible. If anyone follows them in a vehicle they should turn around, go in the other direction, and try to quickly get to a spot where a trusted adult may help them. Advise them to be sure to TELL you or another trusted adult what happened.

9. Instruct your children to never leave school with anyone until they've checked with a trusted adult. If anyone tells them there is an emergency and they want your children to go with them, teach your children to always CHECK FIRST with you before doing anything. Also teach your children to always CHECK FIRST with you if they want to change their plans before or after school. Make sure your children always play with other children, have your permission to play in specific areas, and let you know where they are going to be. Instruct your children to TELL a trusted adult if they notice anyone they don’t know or feel comfortable with hanging around them.

10. In the event your children may be lost or injured, make sure they carry a contact card with your name and telephone numbers such as work and cellular. This card should be hidden from plain view.

Key Tips to Reinforce With Your Children

1. Always TAKE A FRIEND with you when walking, biking, or standing at the bus stop. Make sure you know your bus number and which bus to ride.

2. Say NO if anyone you don’t know or a person who makes you feel scared, uncomfortable, or confused offers a ride unless I have told you it is OKAY to do so in each instance.

3. Quickly get away and yell, “THIS PERSON IS NOT MY MOTHER/FATHER/GUARDIAN” if anyone tries to take you somewhere or is following you. If anyone tries to grab you, make a scene and every effort to get away by kicking, screaming, and resisting.

4. NEVER LEAVE SCHOOL GROUNDS before the regular school day ends. Always check with the office before leaving school early.

5. NEVER take shortcuts or walk through alleys to get to or from school faster. We will talk about which way to go to and from school. Remind me if activities you participate in cause you to leave earlier or arrive home later than usual. Remember to call me once you have arrived home.

For more information about child safety, visit The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at www.missingkids.com or call 1-800-THE-LOST (800-843-5478)

Here at Ident-A-Kid, in addition child identification, we are also concerned with your child’s safety when engaging in the upcoming Halloween festivities. It is vitally important to make sure you and your child know all that you can in order to keep your child safe. Below are some safety rules, provided by the Los Angeles Fire Department at www.lafd.org, about before, during, and after trick-or-treating and some safe alternatives for you, your family, and your community.

BEFORE HALLOWEEN:

• Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.

• Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility.

• Secure an Ident-A-Kid child identification card somewhere in your child’s costume and with you as well.

• Because a mask can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic and hypoallergenic makeup or a decorative hat as a safe alternative.

• When shopping for costumes, wigs and accessories, purchase only those with a label indicating they are flame resistant.

• Think twice before using simulated knives, guns or swords. If such props must be used, be certain they do not appear authentic and are soft and flexible to prevent injury.

• Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts.

• Plan ahead to use only battery powered lanterns or chemical lightsticks in place of candles in decorations and costumes.

• This is also a great time to buy fresh batteries for your home Smoke Alarms.

• Teach children their home phone number and to how call 9-1-1 (or their local emergency number) if they have an emergency or become lost. Remind them that 9-1-1 can be dialed free from any phone.

• Review with your children the principle of "Stop-Drop-Roll", should their clothes catch on fire.

• Openly discuss appropriate and inappropriate behavior at Halloween time.

• Consider purchasing individually packaged healthy food alternatives (or safe non-food treats) for those who visit your home.

• Take extra effort to eliminate tripping hazards on your porch and walkway. Check around your property for flower pots, low tree limbs, support wires or garden hoses that may prove hazardous to young children rushing from house to house.

• Learn or review CPR skills to aid someone who is choking or having a heart attack.
FUN ALTERNATIVES:

• Find a special event or start one in your own neighborhood.

• Community Centers, Shopping Malls and Houses of Worship may have organized festivities.

• Share the fun by arranging a visit to a Retirement Home or Senior Center.

• Create an alliance with College Fraternities, Sororities or Service Clubs for children's face painting or a carnival.

• BEFORE NIGHTFALL ON HALLOWEEN:

• A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats.

• Consider fire safety when decorating. Do not overload electrical outlets with holiday lighting or special effects, and do not block exit doors.

• While children can help with the fun of designing a Jack O' Lantern, leave the carving to adults.

• Always keep Jack O' Lanterns and hot electric lamps far away from drapes, decorations, flammable materials or areas where children and pets will be standing or walking.

• Plan and review with your children the route and behavior which is acceptable to you.

• Do not permit children to bicycle, roller-blade or skateboard.

• Agree on a specific time when revelers must return home.

• Along with flashlights for all, older children and escorts should wear a wristwatch and carry coins or a cell phone for non-emergency phone calls.

• Confine, segregate or otherwise prepare household pets for an evening of frightful sights and sounds. Be sure that all dogs and cats are wearing collars and proper identification tags. Consult your veterinarian for further advice.

• Remind all household drivers to remain cautious and drive slowly throughout the community.

• Adult partygoers should establish and reward a designated driver.

WHEN TRICK-OR-TREATING:

• A Parent or responsible Adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood
rounds.

• Remind Trick-or-Treaters:

o By using a flashlight, they can see and be seen by others.

o Stay in a group, walk slowly and communicate where you are going.

o Only trick-or-treat in well known neighborhoods at homes that have a porch light on.

o Remain on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk.

o If no sidewalk is available, walk at the farthest edge of the roadway facing traffic.

o Never cut across yards or use alleys.

o Never enter a stranger's home or car for a treat.

o Obey all traffic and pedestrian regulations.

o Always walk. Never run across a street.

o Only cross the street as a group in established crosswalks (as recognized by local custom).

o Remove any mask or item that will limit eyesight before crossing a street, driveway or alley.

o Don't assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing Trick-or-Treaters. Just
because one car stops, doesn't mean others will.

o Never consume unwrapped food items or open beverages that may be offered.

o No treats are to be eaten until they are thoroughly checked by an Adult at home.

o Law Enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful
activity.

AFTER TRICK-OR-TREATING:

• Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible Adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items.

• Try to apportion treats for the days following Halloween.

• Although sharing is encouraged, make sure items that can cause choking (such as hard candies), are given only to those of an appropriate age.



We wish you a safe and happy Halloween!

To learn more about Halloween safety from the Los Angeles Fire Department, visit http://www.lafd.org/hween.htm

Fire Safety Tips

Here at Ident-A-Kid, in addition child identification, we are also concerned with your child’s physical safety. Did you know that having a working smoke alarm in your house reduces the chances of dying in a fire by ½? In preparation of fire safety week, October 4-10, we have put together some fire safety tips for you and your family. The U.S. Fire Administration provides some very good fire safety tips below.

Fires and burns are the third leading cause of unintentional injury-related death among children ages 1-14. Children ages 5 and under are at a greater risk from home fire-related death and injury, with a fire death rate 1.5 times the national average. This is because they are less aware of danger, have less control over their environment, and limited ability to act correctly during an emergency.

The U.S. has one of the highest fire death rates in the industrialized world. For 1998, the U.S. fire death rate was 14.9 deaths per million population. Between 1994 and 1998, an average of 4,400 Americans lost their lives and another 25,100 were injured annually as the result of fire. About 100 firefighters are killed each year in duty-related incidents. Each year, fire kills more Americans than all natural disasters combined. Fire is the third leading cause of accidental death in the home; at least 80 percent of all fire deaths occur in residences. About 2 million fires are reported each year. Many others go unreported, causing additional injuries and property loss. Direct property loss due to fires is estimated at $8.6 billion annually.

• Teach children not to play with matches, lighters, flares, fireworks and gasoline cans. Keep matches, lighters, gasoline and other flammable materials out of the sight and reach of children.

• Keep a fire extinguisher (“ABC” symbol) in the kitchen and garage. Be sure it is “UL” or “FM” rated.

• Install smoke detectors in your home in every bedroom and on every level. Test them monthly. Replace the batteries at least once each year.

• Plan and practice fire escape routes from the house. Choose a meeting place, a safe distance outside the house.

• Never leave small children alone in the kitchen or bathroom – for even a few seconds.

• In the kitchen, use back burners and turn pot handles to the back of the stove so that pots do not get knocked over.

• If grease catches fire, smother the flames with a pan lid – never throw water on a grease fire.

• Never carry children and hot foods or liquids at the same time.

• Lower your water heater to 120 degrees or buy an anti-scald device.

• In the bathroom, always test the water temperature before placing a child in the bathtub. Place one hand in the water with fingers wide, and move it back and forth for several seconds checking for hot spots.

• Never touch connected electrical appliances or cords with wet hands of feet. Do not reach for radios, telephones, or hair dryers while in the bath or shower.

• Unplug appliances when they are not being used. Unplug any appliances that smokes or smells as if it is burning, then have it repaired or replace it.

• Do not overload extension cords or run them under rugs.

• Keep furnaces and wood-burning stoves working well. Make sure they are not near combustible walls, ceilings, furniture or drapes.

For more information about fire safety, visit the U.S. Fire Administration website,
http://www.usfa.fema.gov/

Airplane Child Safety Tips

Here at Ident-A-Kid, in addition to child identification, we are also concerned with your child’s safety when traveling by plane. The FAA has released some safety tips below for flying with your children. Check out http://www.faa.gov/passengers/fly_children/crs/ or www.faa.gov for more information.

The safest place for your little one during turbulence or an emergency is in an approved child restraint system (CRS) or device, not on your lap.

A CRS is a hard-backed child safety seat that is approved by the government for use in both motor vehicles and aircraft.

FAA has also approved a harness-type restraint appropriate for children weighing between 22 and 44 pounds. This type of device provides an alternative to using a hard-backed seat and is approved only for use on aircraft. It is not approved for use in motor vehicles.

FAA strongly urges parents and guardians to secure children in an appropriate restraint based on weight and size. Keeping a child in a CRS or device during the flight is the smart and right thing to do.

Cleared For Take-off

• Make sure your CRS is government approved and has "This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft" printed on it. Otherwise, you may be asked to check the CRS as baggage.

• Make sure a harness-type restraint is approved and has "FAA Approved in Accordance with 14CFR 21.305(d), Approved for Aircraft Use Only" on it.

• Measure the width of your CRS. It should fit in most airplane seats if it is no wider than 16 inches.

• Ask your airline for a discounted fare. Many airlines now offer discounts of up to 50 percent for children less than two years old. Buying a ticket for your child is the only way to guarantee that you will be able to use a CRS.

• Reserve adjoining seats. A CRS should be placed in a window seat so it will not block the escape path in an emergency. Do not place a CRS in an exit row.

• If you do not buy a ticket for your child, ask if your airline will allow you to use an empty seat. If your airline's policy allows this, avoid the busiest days and times to increase the likelihood of finding an empty seat next to you.

• Ask your airline if they can provide a CRS for your child. If so, you may not be permitted to bring your own CRS on board, and may need to check it as baggage.

• Arrange for your airline to help you if you need help making a connecting flight. Carrying a CRS, a child, and luggage through a busy airport can be challenging.

• Pack a bag of toys and snacks to keep your child occupied during the flight.


Keep Your Little One Safe When You're in the Air

Be sure the shoulder straps are properly adjusted and fasten the airplane seat belt around the CRS.

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using a CRS. FAA recommends that a child weighing:

• Less than 20 pounds use a rear-facing CRS
• From 20 to 40 pounds use a forward-facing CRS
• More than 40 pounds use an airplane seat belt

• A child may also use an alternative, such as a harness-type restraint, if it is approved by FAA. FAA has approved one restraint appropriate for children weighing between 22 and 44 pounds. This type of restraint is not safe for use in motor vehicles.

While booster seats and harness vests enhance safety in vehicles, FAA prohibits passengers from bringing these types of restraints on airplanes for use during taxi, take-off and landing. These restraints should be checked as baggage. Also, supplemental lap restraints or "belly belts" are not approved for use in both airplanes and vehicles in the United States.

FAA controls the approval of some but not all CRSs. Additional information is available on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website.

Car Travel Safety

Here at Ident-A-Kid, in addition to child identification, we are also concerned with your child’s safety when traveling in a car. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, www.nhtsa.gov, has issued some safety tips to follow when traveling with your child. Below is a tip that involves traveling with your school-age child that we here at Ident-A-Kid think is very important. For more information on safety when traveling with your child, visit http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/people/injury/childps/newtips/index.htm

TRAVELING SAFELY WITH PRESCHOOL & SCHOOL-AGE CHILDREN

A child should stay in a child safety seat with a full harness as long as possible, until about 4 years old. If the child's shoulders are above the top set of harness slots, a combination child seat/booster seat with higher harness slots is a good choice.

• A child over 4 years old may be ready for a booster seat. Booster seats make the vehicle's lap and shoulder belt fit properly. They keep the lap belt from causing injury to the child's abdomen and keep the shoulder belt in place to give the child upper body protection.

• Some younger children may outgrow the weight limit of their child safety seat with a harness and may not be ready to stay seated properly in a booster seat. Look for a child restraint with a higher weight limit.

• All children who have outgrown child safety seats should be properly restrained in booster seats until they are at least 8 years old, unless they are 4' 9" tall. Always make sure the child fits the adult safety belt properly.

SAFETY RESTRAINTS FOR OLDER CHILDREN

• Backless belt-positioning booster seats: Use the vehicle lap and shoulder belt and provide good belt fit on the child. Some older types may come with a removable shield; remove the shield and use the seat with the vehicle lap and shoulder belt.

• High-back belt-positioning booster seats: Use the vehicle lap and shoulder belt. Some are combination child seat/booster seats with a removable harness: They can be used with the harness for a younger child under 40 pounds and then as a belt-positioning booster seat for an older child.

• Specialized restraints include child safety seats with harness labeled for use over 40 pounds, and other harness or shield type restraints. Check for a label stating seat meets federal safety standards. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT RESTRAINT FOR THE CHILD AND VEHICLE

• A belt-positioning booster seat is the best choice if the car has combination lap and shoulder belts in the rear seat, and the child has outgrown the forward facing seat.

• If the child's ears come above the top of the vehicle seat, use a booster seat with a high back to improve neck protection. A specialized restraint may also be an option.

• A combination child seat/booster seat with a removable harness may fit a child from OVER age 1 to age 8 or more. Check the label for the weight limit on the harness.

• If the vehicle only has lap belts it's safer for a child to use a lap belt than to ride without any restraint. Be sure to keep the lap belt low and snug across the thighs. If the lap belt rides up on the stomach it could cause serious injuries in a crash. Other options could include having shoulder belts installed.

WHY USE A BOOSTER SEAT INSTEAD OF AN ADULT SAFETY BELT?

• Safety belts were designed for adults. Until age 8, most children have not developed strong hipbones, and their legs and body are too short to allow for proper fit of a safety belt.

• Many young children do not sit still enough or straight enough to keep lap belts low across their thighs. A belt that rides up on the tummy could cause serious internal injuries.

• Booster seats are comfortable for children because they allow their legs to bend normally, and they enjoy being able to see out of the window.

USING A BELT-POSITIONING BOOSTER SEAT

• Place the booster seat flat on vehicle seat.

• Sit the child on the booster seat, place the lap and shoulder belt over the child and buckle the safety belt.

• Adjust the lap belt so it lays snugly across child's upper thighs, not across the tummy.

• Adjust the shoulder belt and thread through shoulder belt positioner (if available) so that shoulder belt lays snugly across the center of the child's shoulder. Check safety belt fit often.

• Buckle the booster seat in even when the child is not in it. A loose booster seat can injure others in a crash.

WHEN IS A CHILD READY FOR THE ADULT SAFETY BELT?

• To be able to fit a safety belt, a child must:
 Be tall enough to sit without slouching,
 Keep his/her back against the vehicle seat back,
 Keep his/her knees completely bent over the edge of the seat,
 Keep his/her feet flat on the floor, and
 Be able to stay comfortably seated this way.

• The lap belt must fit low and tight across the upper thighs. The shoulder belt should rest over the center of the shoulder and across the chest.

• NEVER put the shoulder belt under the child's arm or behind the child's back. This can cause severe head injuries or internal injuries in a crash. If the safety belt does not fit properly the child should use a belt-positioning booster seat.

• Always check belt fit on the child in every vehicle. A belt-positioning booster seat may be needed in some vehicles and not in others.

For more information, contact the DOT Auto Safety Hotline at 1-888-DASH-2-DOT
(1-888-327-4236) or www.nhtsa.dot.gov

Internet Safety Tips for You and Your Child

Here at Ident-A-Kid, in addition child identification, we are also concerned with your child’s safety when they are online. The Federal Bureau of Investigations www.fbi.gov has issued a pamphlet on your child’s internet safety. Below are some highlights from the pamphlet that we here at Ident-A-Kid think are very important. For more information on internet safety, visit http://www.fbi.gov/publications/pguide/parentsguide.pdf

One thing that is important to be aware of are the signs that indicate that your child might be at risk when they are online. The Federal Bureau of Investigations outline the following indicators of internet risk:

1. Your child spends a large amount of time on the internet, especially at night

• Many children that fall victim to computer sex offenders are those who spend a lot of time on the internet and internet chat rooms. Children who spend a lot of time online are looking to chat with friends, make new friends, find information, and just generally pass the time. Sometimes children spend a lot of their time looking for sexually explicit information as well. Parents should be acutely aware of the time their child is spending on the internet and what they are doing while online

• Many sexual offenders spend their evenings searching for pornography and trying to locate or lure children. Children are at the greatest risk when they are online during the evening hours. However, it is important to remember that these things can happen at any time of the day as well.

2. You find pornography on the computer your child uses.

• Sexual offenders will often give their potential victims pornography in order to start sexual conversations. Child pornography is sometimes used by offenders to show children that sex between adults and children is “okay.” Your child may also try to hide the pornography by putting it on a separate drive, like a flash drive. Be sure to know what is on your children’s electronic devices.

3. Your child is making or receiving calls from people you don’t recognize or numbers you don’t recognize.

• Sex offenders will try to get your child to talk on the telephone to either set up a meeting or engage your child in explicit conversations. Although your child may not give out his/her number, the offender will give the child their number. The offender may also ask the child to call collect or the offender may set up an 800 number so that the parents will not find out.

4. Your child is receiving mail, gifts, or packages from someone you do not know.

• Offenders will commonly send their potential victims letters, photos, gifts, or even plane tickets. It is important to know what your children are receiving and who they are receiving it from.

5. When you come into the room your child quickly turns off the computer monitor or changes the screen on the monitor.

• If your child does this, they may be trying to hide that they are looking at pornography or having explicit conversations.

6. Your child has become withdrawn from the family.

• Offenders will take any chance they can to drive distance between you and your child. They may accentuate minor problems at home in order to do this. If your child has been sexually victimized, he/she may also withdraw from the family and those close to them.

7. Your child is using an online account that belongs to someone else.

• Your child may be using the internet at a friend’s house or at the library. Computer sex offenders sometimes will provide potential victims with a computer account so that your child can communicate with them.

If you suspect your child is communicating with a sexual predator online, the Federal Bureau of Investigation gives the following suggestions as to what steps can be taken to ensure your child’s safety:

1. Talk openly about your child about your suspicions and tell them what dangers are out there involving computer sex offenders.

2. Review what is on your child’s computer. While using the internet browser select tools, then internet options. This way you can look through the internet history on the computer.

3. Use Caller ID service and use the telephone company’s service to block your number from showing on other Caller IDs. You can also use the telephone company’s service to reject numbers that you specifically block. This will help to prevent sex offenders from calling your home anonymously.

4. Monitor your child’s access to live electronic communication like chat rooms, instant messaging, etc. and child’s email.

Should any of the following situations arise in your household, via the Internet or on-line service, you should immediately contact your local or state law enforcement agency, the FBI, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children:

1. Your child or anyone in the household has received child pornography;

2. Your child has been sexually solicited by someone who knows that your child is under 18 years of age;

3. Your child has received sexually explicit images from someone that knows your child is under the age of 18.

• If one of these scenarios occurs, keep the computer turned off in order to preserve any evidence for future law enforcement use. Unless directed to do so by the law enforcement agency, you should not attempt to copy any of the images and/or text found on the computer.


For more information about internet safety, visit http://www.fbi.gov/publications/pguide/parentsguide.pdf or www.fbi.gov

Back to School Safety!

As you and your children transition into the back-to-school routine, important safety tips and precautions should be given top priority. In addition to making sure that you have an up-to-date Ident-A-Kid card for your child’s Identification, The U.S. Department of Justice and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children have compiled ten Tips for Parents or Guardians for back to school safety.

1. Instruct your children to always take a friend, always stay in well-lit areas, never take shortcuts, and never go into isolated areas. Teach them to stay aware of their surroundings and observe all traffic rules in place to more safely share the roads and sidewalks with others.

2. Walk the route to and from school with your children pointing out landmarks and safe places to go if they're being followed or need help. Make the walk to and from school a "teachable moment" and chance to put their skills to the test. Make a map with your children showing acceptable routes to and from school. If your children wait for a bus, wait with them or make arrangements for supervision at the bus stop.

3. If anyone bothers your children or makes them feel scared, uncomfortable, or confused, while going to or from school, teach your children to trust their feelings, immediately get away from that person, and tell you or another trusted adult. If an adult approaches your children for help or directions, remember grownups needing help should not ask children for help; they should ask other adults. Instruct your children to never accept money or gifts from anyone unless you have told them it is okay to accept in each instance.

4. Even though there can be safety in numbers it is still not safe for young children to walk to and from school, especially if they must take isolated routes anytime during the day or in darkness. Always provide supervision for your young children to help ensure their safe arrival to and from school.

5. Instruct your children to leave items and clothing with their name on them at home. If anyone calls out their name, teach them to not be fooled or confused. Teach your children about the tricks someone may try to use to confuse them or engage them in conversation. Children should also be taught that they do not need to be polite if approached and to get out of the situation as quickly and safely as possible.

6. Ensure current and accurate emergency contact information is on file for your children at their school. If you, or another trusted family member or friend, need to pick your children up, make sure to follow the school's departure procedures. These procedures need to include the school's confirmation of your children's departure with only those you authorize to pick them up.

7. Teach your children if anyone tries to take them somewhere they should quickly get away and yell, "This person is trying to take me away" or "This person is not my father/mother/guardian." Teach your children to make a scene and every effort to get away by kicking, screaming, and resisting if anyone tries to grab them.

8. Teach your children if anyone follows them on foot to get away from that person as quickly as possible. If anyone follows them in a vehicle they should turn around, go in the other direction, and try to quickly get to a spot where a trusted adult may help them. Advise them to be sure to tell you or another trusted adult what happened.

9. Instruct your children to never leave school with anyone until they've checked with a trusted adult. If anyone tells them there is an emergency and they want your children to go with them, teach your children to always check first with you before doing anything. Also teach your children to always check first with you if they want to change their plans before or after school. Make sure your children always play with other children, have your permission to play in specific areas, and let you know where they are going to be. Instruct your children to tell a trusted adult if they notice anyone they don't know or feel uncomfortable with hanging around them.

10. In the event your children may be lost or injured, make sure they carry a contact card with your name and telephone numbers such as work and cellular. This card should be hidden from plain view.

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children also highlight the following 5 tips to reinforce with your children:

1. Always TAKE A FRIEND with you when walking, biking, or standing at the bus stop. Make sure you know your bus number and which bus to ride.

2. Say NO to anyone you don’t know or a person who makes you feel scared, uncomfortable, or confused

3. Quickly get away and YELL, “THIS PERSON IS NOT MY MOTHER/FATHER/GUARDIAN” if anyone tries to take you somewhere or is following you. If anyone tries to grab you, make a scene and every effort to get away by kicking, screaming, and resisting.

4. NEVER LEAVE SCHOOL GROUNDS before the regular school day ends. Always check with the office and me before leaving school early.

5. NEVER take shortcuts or walk through alleys to get to or from school. We will talk about which way to go to and from school. Remind me if activities you participate in cause you to leave earlier or arrive home later than usual. Remember to call me once you have arrived home.

For more information or to see the source of these Child Safety Tips, visit the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s Website at www.missingkids.com

THE SUPER SITTER
In addition to Child Identification, we here at Ident-A-Kid are concerned about your child’s safety. There are certain things that you as parents should expect from the sitter and the sitter should expect from you. That's why the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has prepared this Super Sitter Guide. It is to help you become more aware of some of these guidelines, particularly:
• the need for constant observation and alertness to the child's environment
• selecting toys for children that are not dangerous
• the importance of children playing with toys in the proper manner
• the need for keeping children's products in good condition so they don't become dangerous for them to use
WHAT IS EXPECTED OF THE SITTER
There are certain do's and don'ts. In addition to "sitting" with the children, these are a few of the things you should know and remember as a Safe Sitter.
• Before the parents leave, get the names and phone numbers suggested in the Super Sitter's Very Important Phone Numbers List.
• Have the parents show you through the house or apartment and point out where the items you will need are located, such as the children's clothing or playthings.
• Always know where the emergency exits are located. In case of fire don't stop to try to put it out by yourself! Get the children out of the house without stopping to phone. Take them to a neighbor. Call the fire department, and then call the parents to let them know where you and the children are.
• Keep the youngsters safe by preventing accidents. Know where the potential hazards are, such as electrical outlets, appliances, and exposed heating elements. Also ask the parents if all medicine, bleaches and household cleaners are securely locked up.
• Stairs can be dangerous for youngsters. Keep a curious toddler from playing on or around them. Running or horseplay on them can lead to falls, particularly if the youngsters are wearing socks or other "slippery" footwear. Remember, too, that stairs are not meant to be a storage area. Anything placed on the stairs can become an obstacle to fall over.
• If there is a gate across the stairway, make sure it is kept latched. Babies in carriages, walkers or strollers should never be left unattended, especially in an area around stairs or ramps -- whether indoors or out. A malfunction of the carriage's safety brake or a sudden movement by the child could put it right over the edge. If a gate is not provided, place a barrier of some kind in front of the stairway that a child cannot climb over. Accordion-style gates with large V-shaped or diamond-shaped openings should not be used since they can entrap a child's head, causing strangulation. A gate with a straight top or small V's and diamond-shaped openings is safer. Make sure pressure gates are firmly in place and can't be dislodged by the child.
• Caution the child about the dangers of glass doors or windows. A child running or riding on a trike or bike could easily go through the glass. Be sure you keep toys, scatter rugs and other articles that could cause someone to slip or trip away from these areas. If you are caring for a particularly active child, place a large chair or other piece of furniture in front of the glass area for safety's sake. You also can suggest to the parents that large, colorful decals at eye level for both children and adults can make glass doors safer.
• Unless specifically instructed by the parents, do not bathe the baby. A clean facecloth in lukewarm water will suffice in most cases for cleaning the skin. Bathing a baby calls for utmost care and supervision; aside from the risk of hot water scalds, there is always the danger of drowning. While you may want to be of help to the parents, bathing the infant is not recommended.
• If you are changing the baby's diapers, plan on having everything within immediate reach so you won't have to step away from the infant even for a second. If you are not constantly watching them, babies can roll over and fall from changing tables or other high places. Have diapers, pins, etc., next to you so the baby is under constant supervision.
• Infants may choke on small items which they put in their mouths. Small pieces of food, coins, pins and other non-toy items could lodge in the baby's throat and cause choking or asphyxiation. It could also occur with small toys or parts of toys intended for older children. Watch the baby carefully to make sure these objects are not within reach. In the event of accidental choking, apply first aid measures to clear the child's airway. Also call the rescue squad. (If you don't know first aid, contact your local American Red Cross office or an approved community agency for instruction.)
• A "super sitter" will look for hazards before they surface. Loose, baggy clothing can be dangerous if it gets caught on furniture, cribs, playpens, etc., as children climb, play or scamper about the room. Clothing can also be a problem if it becomes tightly wound around the baby. Be on the alert for hazards such as these, and adjust the clothing so that it cannot become tangled.
• To prevent accidental injuries, keep doors and windows locked at all times. Remember that children, though under your supervision, can at times just "seem to disappear" from your watchful eye.
• Never open the door to strangers. If there is a question about someone at the door, call the parents to check with them.
• In case of accident or illness, don't try to be doctor or nurse except for minor cuts and bruises. Call the parents for instructions. If they cannot be reached, call your own parents or go to a neighbor for help. The sick or hurt child may require a doctor or emergency care.
WHERE THE CHILD IS ...
With several children -- particularly toddlers (2 and 3 year olds) -- you won't be doing much sitting." You'll be playing with them and supervising their play activities. Where They Play ... Just a reminder that whether you're actually playing with the children or supervising them, keep them within safe play areas, preferably within your sight. Keep them away from potential danger areas in the home such as the kitchen, bathroom, workshop and storage areas. They move fast, so you will have to be able to move even faster!
The Playpen
You should be aware of hazards to a child left alone in a playpen. A string of toys across the top or even to one side of the playpen could be a strangulation risk. Dropside mesh playpens and portable mesh cribs, used with a side left down, can pose a serious hazard to newborns and infants. When the side is down, the mesh forms a loose pocket into which an infant can fall or roll and suffocate. Dropsides should ALWAYS be up and locked securely in position when a child is in the playpen or crib. Don't put any toys in the playpen that a child can climb on to get out. And little fingers can get caught in hinges.
Baby Walkers ... the baby hot rod!
Baby walkers seem fun to scoot around in, but they also can scoot down a flight of stairs, into a hot stove, against a table edge or into a glass door. They offer limited balance to a child not yet completely able to stand or walk. If unstable, walkers can easily tip over. Stay with the child when he or she is in the walker, and assist it over thresholds or carpeting.
High Chairs
A child in a high chair requires almost constant attention. Babies can slip out of a high chair in an instant if not properly strapped in. An unstable high chair can tip over ... with the baby in it! Make sure that any safety belts or straps on the high chair are securely fastened and that the tray is properly secured. Don't let the child stand up while in the chair, and keep other children from climbing on it. Keep the chair away from "traffic lanes," doorways, refrigerator and stove, and far enough away from tables and walls so that the child can't push the chair over.
The Crib
If baby is to sleep safely, make sure that the crib is as safe as you can make it. If there is too much room (more than two fingers width) between the mattress and the side of the crib, an infant's head could get caught in between and the infant could suffocate. Roll up a couple of large bath towels and place them in the space. If the slats are more than 2-3/8 inches apart, the baby's body can slide between the slats and the baby can suffocate.

If the child is old enough to stand up, the parents should set the mattress at its lowest position, with the side rail at its highest position. Check the mattress support frequently to make sure it hasn't become unhooked from the end panels. Any toys you leave in the crib should never be ones that could be used to help in climbing out. Also, do not use crib toys that may have strings or elastic attached to them -- these can strangle or choke! Cribs with decorative knobs on the cornerposts can be a strangulation hazard. Children's clothing and strings or necklaces can catch on the protrusions, especially if the child is trying to climb out. Crib gyms should be removed from the crib when the baby is five months old or can push up on hands and knees, otherwise the baby can get his/her chin across the crib gym or catch clothing on it and strangle.
TOYS THEY PLAY WITH ...
Teach children to play safely by showing them how to use their toys in a safe manner and by teaching them to put their toys away after play.

Be particularly aware of safe and unsafe toys. These are some toy dangers you should be aware of:

1. SMALL PARTS.

Tiny toys and toys with small removable parts can be swallowed or become lodged in a child's throat, windpipe, ears or nose. The seams of poorly constructed stuffed dolls or animals can break open and release small pellets that can be swallowed or inhaled.

2. SHARP EDGES.

Toys of brittle plastic or glass can be broken easily, leaving dangerous, sharp, cutting edges. Metal and plastic toys sometimes have sharp edges due to poor construction.

3. SHARP POINTS.

Broken toys can expose dangerous prongs and knifelike sharp points. Pins and staples on dolls' clothes, hair and accessories can easily puncture an unsuspecting child.

4. LOUD NOISES.

Toy caps and some noise-making guns and other toys can produce sounds at noise levels that can damage hearing. Do not allow children to fire cap guns closer than one foot to the ear; also, do not use indoors.

5. PROPELLED OBJECTS.

Projectiles -- guided missiles and similar flying toys -- can be turned into weapons and can injure eyes in particular. Children should never be permitted to play with adult lawn darts or other hobby or sporting equipment that have sharp points. Arrows or darts used by children should have soft cork tips, rubber suction cups or other protective tips intended to prevent injury. Teach children that these toys should never be aimed at people or pets.

6. ELECTRIC TOYS.

Electric toys that are improperly constructed, wired or used can shock or burn. Electric toys with heating elements are only recommended for children over eight years old. Children should be taught to use electric toys cautiously and under adult supervision.

7. WRONG TOY FOR THE WRONG AGE.

Toys that may be safe for older children -- like a chemistry or hobby set or games with small pieces -- can be extremely dangerous in the hands of little ones.

8. CORDS AND STRINGS.

Toys with long strings or cords may be dangerous for infants and very young children. The cords may become wrapped around an infant's neck, causing strangulation. Never hang toys with long strings, cords, loops or ribbons in cribs or playpens. Pacifiers should never be attached to strings or ribbons around a baby's neck.
SUPER SITTER'S SURPRISE BOX
To overcome any outbursts from the children when the parents are leaving, you may want to have your own Super Sitter's Surprise Box. This can be anything in the way of toys or treasures for them to play with, to stimulate curiosity and to take away fear of being left "forever."

The box can be of your own design. It can be as complicated and complex as an overnight case filled with colorful, new, exciting and safe toys you buy (or borrow from a younger sister or brother). It can be as simple as a shoe box filled with toys you have made. It will help ease those first difficult moments and many more besides.

Here's how you can make your Super Sitter's Surprise Box:

A variety of colors of "sticky-back" tape and a medium sized box with a lid or an old overnight case are all you need. Cut the tape into strips, squares, triangles and circles and tape them on to the box or case. Besides being attractive and eye-catching, the shapes can be educational. Fill the Surprise Box with any of the "surprises" below:
• rubber animals
• plastic or wooden animals with smooth edges
• soft plastic or cloth covered books
• plastic or wooden toy cars or trucks with no small detachable parts
• large rubber ball
• playing cards
• set of measuring cups
• different colored bandage strips to use as "puppets" on your fingers, or on the baby's fingers.
Try to put a surprise or two -- a book, coloring book, game, puzzle or some item of amusement into your box for an older brother or sister.

When making your Surprise Box, remember to use only safe toys! Check to see that they don't have any of the toy dangers. Make your Super Sitter's Surprise Box a safe surprise!
PLAYING OUTDOORS
Some of your daytime sitting may include playing outdoors with the children. Outdoor play equipment -- swings, seesaws and slides -- can be fun, but can be dangerous too. Play safety can be taught to even the youngest toddlers.

Children often do the unexpected on playground equipment. They are naturally and normally curious and adventuresome. Standing in a swing is "bigger and better" than sitting in one. Climbing to the top, sitting or swinging on it shows great daring. Little ones are unaware of risk ... often jumping off or in front of swings, seesaws or gliders. They may walk in front or in back of a moving swing. In an atmosphere of "the more the merrier," they may overload any one piece of equipment and tip the entire structure. Hanging "rings" are particularly dangerous to small children whose heads may be small enough to go through the ring, turning it into a hanging "noose."

All children should be supervised when playing on this kind of equipment. They should be told to sit in the center of a swing. Explain the following hazards: walking in front or in back of a swing; pushing other children off of the swing; swinging empty seats; twisting the swing chains; and, climbing up the front of the slide. Roughhousing, overloading equipment and misuse can be curbed from the start if you're there supervising their play.

Older children can be taught certain safety rules and why they are important. Asking them to assist you in supervising the younger ones will help them to understand these rules better. Dangerous roughhousing, stunts, overloading, abuse and misuse of equipment and showing off are unacceptable.
POOL SAFETY
Daytime sitting can also include time in or around a swimming pool, wading pool or spa. Children are naturally attracted to water, therefore, a "super sitter" must take precautions at all times to prevent accidents from happening. Drowning is the third leading cause of accidental death nationwide to children under five years of age. In addition, some 3,000 youngsters in the same age group are treated each year in hospital emergency rooms as a result of near-drownings; some of these children are hospitalized for life as a result of near-drowning.

Drowning is a silent killer. When a child drowns, a baby sitter won't hear a cry or even a splash. Drownings can happen very quickly.

How do children drown? How can you prevent a tragedy from happening?
• Seconds count. In seconds, a child can leave the house and walk to the edge of the pool. In seconds, a child can drown in only a few inches of water. A child can drown in the few seconds taken to answer a telephone in the house.
• Eyes on the child at all times is your best bet. There is no substitute for constant supervision of the child.
• Children should be supervised and accompanied at all times, even though the parents previously instructed the children not to go near the water.
• Make sure gates leading to the pool are closed and locked. Lock all doors leading from the house to the pool area. Locks should always be out of reach of children.
• Don't consider a child to be water-safe even if the youngster has had swimming lessons or water-familiarity class.
• Don't assume a pool to be safe, even one with a pool cover or a fence.
• Don't allow children to play on the apron surrounding the pool.
• If the pool is above-ground, remove the ladder to prevent access by anyone.
• Learn how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on infants and young children. Contact your local chapter of the American Heart Association or American Red Cross about registering for classes.
• If for any reason you discover the child to be missing, check the pool, wading pool, spa or hot tub first.
• Know the telephone numbers to call for emergency medical service. In some locations you dial 911, in others a seven-digit number. As a "super sitter" you can teach the children that safe play can still be fun play!
POISON: FOOD FOR THOUGHT ONLY!
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT IT...

Not everything that goes into a child's mouth falls into the category of food. Too often, what ends up in mouths and stomachs may be deadly! Growing children are curious about things that glitter and shine, pretty colored pills, bottles and containers of all kinds, and what's in them. Children under the age of five are in stages of growth where they are constantly exploring and investigating. This is how they learn. Unfortunately, what children see and reach for, they put into their mouths and swallow.

Every year thousands of youngsters across the country receive emergency hospital or doctor's care because of accidental poisoning. These are chiefly children under five who have ingested some common household item which suddenly becomes poison in the wrong hands (and mouths). These include medicines, cleaning products and preparations, insect sprays, lighter fluid and kerosene, turpentine and paints.

You can help prevent accidental poisonings, while baby sitting and in your own home too. Here are some things you should remember:
All household products and medicines should be stored out of sight and reach of young children -- preferably locked up! (If you are sitting where household cleaning agents are stored under the sink and you are in charge of a "crawler" -- or the medicine cabinet is accessible to a "climber" -- you can put protective tape across the front of the cabinet as an extra precaution.)
As a baby sitter you should not be expected to give any medication. But in certain circumstances, you may be asked to give a medication during the time the parents are away. If it is absolutely necessary that you do this, have the parents leave explicit, written instructions for you.
SOME GENERAL POINTS TO REMEMBER ABOUT MEDICATIONS ARE:

1. Read the label on the container carefully as well as the instructions from the parents.

2. Never leave the child alone with the medication. If the phone rings take the medication with you.

3. Return the medication to its safe storage place with the safety closure on securely.

4. Do not call the medication candy.

5. Do not give the medication in the dark.

6. Do not take any medication yourself in the presence of the child.

7. Be careful of what you might be bringing into the house.

Children are normally curious and can get into a pocketbook, briefcase or overnight case of a guest which could contain medications. An otherwise "poison-proof" household can become the scene of an accidental poisoning incident.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW TO DO...
IF THERE IS A POISONING ACCIDENT:

1. DON'T WAIT to see what effect it may have. If you think the child has swallowed medicine or a household product, call a Poison Control Center, doctor, or hospital IMMEDIATELY! (These should be emergency numbers on your list.) Describe what was taken and how much, giving as much information as you can. Describe the condition of the child -- vomiting, drowsiness, change of color, coldness of skin. In the event no medical instructions are available, check the label on the container for emergency procedures and directions, if any. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING UNLESS INSTRUCTED BY MEDICAL PERSONNEL OR THE LABEL GIVES SUCH INSTRUCTIONS. IF INSTRUCTED TO INDUCE VOMITTING, GIVE SYRUP OF IPECAC. (NOTE: PARENTS SHOULD KEEP ON HAND A ONE-OUNCE BOTTLE OF SYRUP OF IPECAC FOR EACH CHILD IN THE HOME).

2. Call in a neighbor who can help you take care of this emergency; get the child medical aid, or help take care of other children in the family. At this point, don't try to take on all of the care and responsibility yourself.

3. Call the parents. Explain what has happened, what has already been done and what is yet to be done. If the child is to be taken to a hospital or doctor's office, it may be more expedient to get the child there and have the parents go there immediately rather than come home first. Speed, of course, is important. But equally important is the way you handle the situation. Try to keep control. A frightened and sick child will become more frightened if you are excited or show panic. Accidental poisoning is a frightening experience, but if you know preventive measures, you will be able to handle the situation when it happens. (Tell the parents about child resistant safety packaging which can help prevent these kinds of accidents.)
Time to Leave
Before you realize it, the parents have arrived to find you and their children safe and sound, and to see you home safely. During your first sitting experience, you may have been nervous, but with each new one, you will gain confidence, especially if you remember the Super Sitter Tips we have discussed. Here is a summary of those tips which you should keep foremost in your mind until you are confident that you know them:
• Know what to do in emergencies by being prepared for one, knowing what could happen and how to react to it. Take first aid instructions.
• Always know where the emergency exits are located.
• Keep doors and windows locked for the safety of both yourself and the children.
• Know where the "danger" items are -- medicines, bleaches, household cleaners and electrical appliances. Keep them out of children's reach if the parents have not locked them away in a secure place.
• In case of accident or illness, don't try to be a doctor or nurse except for minor cuts and bruises.
• Keep your emergency telephone list handy -- use these numbers when you need them.
• Depend on the parents or a neighbor in any emergency situation that you are not sure how to handle yourself.
• Prevent play accidents by keeping the youngsters safe -- supervise where they play, what they play with and teach them safe play. Keep these safety tips in mind ... they will make your baby sitting experience both safe and fun for you and the children. They will make you a SUPER SAFE SITTER.
Super Sitter's Very Important Phone Numbers
Post these names and phone numbers by the telephone. Then you'll have them when and if you need them.
Where parents will be:___________________________________________
Nearby friend____________________________________________________
or relative______________________________________________________
or neighbor______________________________________________________
Children's doctor________________________________________________
Fire Department__________________________________________________
Police Department________________________________________________
Poison Control Center____________________________________________
Hospital_________________________________________________________

for more information about Child Identification, visit www.identakid.com