Safety Tips for Christmas Shopping with Kids

The Long Beach Police Department urges parents to teach their children simple safety tips before they head out to go Christmas shopping with their children for the final week of shopping.  

Commissioner Thomas R. Sofield, Sr. offers these six tips to the community:

1. Teach your children to stay with you at all times while shopping. They should always check with you or the person in charge before they go anywhere. Always supervise your children in a public facility and accompany young children to the restroom.

2. Make a plan in case you become separated. Have older kids meet you in a pre-designated spot (e.g. the sales counter or mall information booth). Teach younger children to look for people who can help them within the store or mall, such as a uniformed security officer, a salesperson with a nametag or a mother with children. They should never leave the store or mall or go to the parking lot to look for you or your car.

3. Turn shopping trips into opportunities for your children to practice these "safe shopping" skills.

4. Leave clothing that displays your children's names at home, as it can prompt unwelcome attention from people who may be looking for an opportunity to start a conversation with your children.

5. Never leave children in toy stores or public facilities (e.g. video arcades, movie theaters, playgrounds) and expect store personnel to supervise your children.

6. Have older children take a friend if you allow them to go shopping or to public functions without you. It's more fun and much safer. Older children should check in with you on a regular basis while they are out. Agree on a clear plan for picking them up including: location, time, and what to do in case plans change.  

"The Holiday Season is the most wonderful time of the year, especially for children," Sofield said. "By taking some simple precautions, parents can help to ensure a safe and happy holiday."