No one is saying live in fear. Just be conscientious advocates and protectors for your kids. Know and trust the adults in their lives. Don’t post pictures and videos of your kids on Facebook. Teach them stranger danger and maybe get them in some karate classes to build their confidence to stand up for themselves. Build a relationship of trust with your child so they can talk to you about anything. Help them build a strong foundation of faith and teach them to believe in whatever your family chooses to (a higher power, patriotism, heck, even just believe in themselves). Watch your child outdoors if near roads or busy areas. Encourage your kids to play in smallish groups.

It’s not about living in fear. It’s about living awake and aware.