Boxing Day is the day after Christmas and gives people the chance to take part in the post-Christmas sales or watch ice hockey games. Some shoppers start their Boxing Day waiting outside stores in the wee hours of the morning and stores open earlier than usual to accommodate eager shoppers.
Crowds are greater at this time and children may easily become separated from their parents. Parents need a plan and children should know what to do in case they are separated. For smaller children, the plan should be to remain in the area where they become separated and wait for their parent to come to them. For older children, the plan could be having a pre-designated spot to meet and having the parents cell phone number on speed dial. Prior to a busy day like Boxing Day, practicing the plan is a good idea so that everyone will know what to do if something does happen.
Tips for Children:
- Be with your parents at all times while shopping. Always go with your parents when going to public facilities, like restrooms.
- Always travel with proper identification and contact information for your parent or guardian.
- Never wear clothes with your first or last name prominently displayed, to avoid unwelcome attention from people looking for an opportunity to talk with you.
- Always ask your parents before going off to look at something or with someone, and before accepting any unrequested “gifts” from strangers.
- Even if you’re old enough to shop alone, go with a friend, since it’s more fun and much safer. Agree on a clear plan with your parents on: where you are going, what time you plan to come home, and what to do in case of a change in plans.
Tips for Parents:
- Teach children to look for properly identified people of authority who can help, such as: a uniformed security officer, a salesperson or a mother with children.
- Never expect supervision from store personnel in toy stores, the video arcade and similar public facilities.
- Find out whether the malls you are going to have procedures to search for a missing child.
- Always be extra careful when using shopping carts. Shopping carts can tip over easily because the wheel base is narrow. Young children should sit in the seat, not the basket.
- Be very careful around stairs, escalators, and elevators. Injuries occur when groups of people are moving quickly.
- Avoid darkened hallways and other backroom areas inside a mall especially near closing time.
- Make frequent trips to your car to stash packages in the trunk so your hands stay free to hold your children. Take time to relax and visit shops that your child is interested in. You will reduce the chance they will wander away if you spend some time letting them do things they want to do.
Remember these tips so that you can have a safe and enjoyable shopping experience!
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