Keep them safe on the streets
It's not much fun being a teenager nowadays. They want their freedom, but you're probably terrified of letting go. So tell them:
- to keep mobile phones and other valuables well out of sight. Don't flash them around. Keep phone ringers turned off to avoid attracting attention
- to travel with a friend whenever possible
- to stay alert, and keep their personal stereo turned off, so they can hear what's going on around them
- if someone tries to take something from them, they shouldn't try to fight, especially if they're threatened with a knife. Just hand any valuables over and run away. Their life is far more important than the cost of a mobile phone.
- avoid getting into rows with other groups of teenagers when they're out with their mates. Never mind they may lose face, better to be safe than sorry
- if your child thinks someone is following them, they should cross the road or go to a place with lots of people around, like a bus stop or shop
- stick to busy, well-lit roads, and avoid short cuts through alleyways
- think about carrying an alarm or whistle that they can wear around their neck or on a key chain to ward off suspicious strangers
- keep keys in their pocket so they're near at hand or wont be lost if their bag gets stolen
- key ICE numbers ( In Case of Emergency) into their phones. If something does happen emergency services will know who to contact
By Julia Shaw
Where to next?
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Are we beating the bullies?
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Child sexual abuse
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Dealing with a teen who takes drugs
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Dealing with stroppy teenagers
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Gangs: Advice for parents
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Getting information and advice
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Helping your teenager say no
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How to get a stressed teen to sleep
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How to live with teenagers
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How to spot a depressed teenager
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How to stop your kids swearing
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'I noticed beer and wine going missing'



Barbara, about 1 year
I worry about my son because he has Aspergers Syndrome (a mild form of autism). He is now 14 and has virtually no sense of danger. I have been told by his teachers that they have seen him re-enacting his favourite films and TV programmes while he is walking home from school. It only takes 20 minutes for him to get home but I am worried about who could target him without him realising.
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