Teaching Children to Recognize “Tricky People”
A Mother’s Distressing Encounter
Jodie Norton, a southern Utah-based blogger and author, recently shared a chilling tale concerning her two sons that oscillated between distress and relief. On a day like any other, Jodie suddenly experienced severe abdominal pain mid-shower, forcing her to hurriedly take her two young sons, aged 10 and 8, to the hospital. Due to a communication mishap with a neighbor, the boys found themselves unattended outside the emergency ward for a prolonged period.
“The unexpected can happen in a heartbeat, always be prepared.”
An Unsettling Approach by Strangers
It was during this window of vulnerability that the duo was approached by three unfamiliar figures – a woman accompanied by two men. These strangers, using the pretext of needing assistance with a sick man, attempted to entice the boys into the bathroom. The boys, however, stood their ground, recalling a crucial family teaching: “Adults don’t ask kids for help.”
Upon delving deeper into their decision, Jodie’s elder son, CJ, shed light on the pivotal lesson that informed their actions. He identified these strangers as “tricky people” based on their unusual request, given the understanding that adults rarely, if ever, seek help from children in such matters.
The Concept of “Tricky People”
This protective principle, branded as the “tricky people” concept, pivots from the traditional “stranger danger” notion. Instead of merely warning children about unknown individuals, it offers a broader perspective by illuminating potentially alarming behaviors. This idea, the brainchild of Pattie Fitzgerald from Safely Ever After, stresses the fact that any adult can display “tricky” behaviors.
“It’s not just about who they are, but what they do. Actions reveal intentions.”
Jodie’s narrative oscillated between astonishment and gratitude as she learned about the close shave her sons had experienced. The boys’ application of the “tricky people” principle, coupled with their commitment to family guidelines, shielded them from a potentially perilous situation. She lauded her sons for their discernment and adherence to the safety protocols she had instilled.
Raising Awareness and Staying Vigilant
Having relayed the event to the local authorities, Jodie confirmed that efforts were underway to scrutinize the hospital’s security footage for insights into the trio’s behavior.
Her ordeal underscores the imperative of equipping children with the right tools and knowledge to discern and navigate potential threats. By moving beyond the limitations of the “stranger danger” paradigm and adopting the more holistic “tricky people” concept, parents can better prepare their children for an intricate world fraught with unpredictable challenges.
“In an ever-changing world, our approach to safety too must evolve.”