Q:
I am a new mother—and an over-protective one, I admit. I was wondering what I should do in the event that I ever become separated from my child at a mall, park or any other public place? I want to be prepared.
A:
During a child’s toddler years, many parents use a harness to help keep their little one from wandering off. That’s something you might try in the future.
When your child’s around the age of 3 you can role–play to prepare him or her in case you become separated. I know children who have “rehearsed” what they would do if they were lost, and it helped them when it actually happened. For example, one little girl identified a clerk in the store by the shirt she was wearing. She then approached the employee and told her that she needed help because she had lost her mommy.
Kenneth N. Condrell Ph.D Child Psychologist
Our parenting advice is given as suggestions only. We recommend you also consult your healthcare provider, and urge you to contact them immediately if your question is urgent or about a medical condition.
