Child safety experts suggest teaching boundaries over stranger danger

Childhood education and psychology specialist Regina Ascencio suggests that instead of simply telling children not to talk to strangers, parents should provide them with tools to recognize uncomfortable behaviors, set boundaries, and ask for help. Experts note that telling a child ‘do not talk to strangers’ can be confusing because young children may not yet have the cognitive development to distinguish between a stranger and someone they simply do not know yet.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends discussing specific safety protocols with children, such as not entering vehicles with unknown individuals and seeking help immediately if they feel at risk. Prevention should focus on helping children identify behaviors that cross personal boundaries rather than teaching them to fear all people.