Parents often ask us at HTPA, “What are some things I can do to reduce my teen’s risk of being trafficked?”
We can all do something to help protect our children. Education is key. We recommend parents and guardians to learn about the risk and protective factors of human trafficking and child exploitation. It’s especially important to educate yourself about the signs of human trafficking and child exploitation.
Talk, they will listen.
Talking with your kids about human trafficking can be difficult, but they will listen. They need to know that you care and that you will always be there for them no matter what. Here are some simple things you can do to safeguard your teen from human trafficking and exploitation:
- Talk with your kids. It’s so important to spend quality time with your child.
- Build trust and respect with your teen so they feel comfortable talking to you about anything.
- Know who your teen hangs out with and who they are communicating with online,
- Monitor your teen’s activities on and offline.
- Be mindful of your teen’s spending habits and talk to them if you notice a sudden increase in expenses.
- Make it clear to your teen that they will not get in trouble for asking for help, even if they made a mistake.
- It’s important to talk to your teen about the importance of knowing the phone numbers of trusted adults in case of an emergency. Make sure they know who to call if they feel unsafe or need help.
- Teach your teen about online safety and how to avoid dangerous situations.
- You need to live in your child’s world. Stay up to date with technology and popular apps used by teens.
- Teach your teen that 911 is the number to call if they are ever in danger.
- Add the trafficking hotline numbers into your teen’s phone.
- Reassure your teen that you are there for them and that you will always help them.
HTPA is here to help you. We are all in this together!