As your child grows and develops, they’ll begin to ask for additional privileges, which you may or may not feel comfortable giving them. For example, they may notice other children walking to the bus stop alone, and wonder why you continue to escort them. But how do you know when it’s time to relinquish control, and how can you ensure your child will be safe? From private talks to scent kits, use the following guide to make a smart decision and protect your little one from potential stranger danger.

Should You Let Your Child Walk to the Bus Stop Alone?

First, consider if your child is mature enough to handle this responsibility. While there are tests you can take to gauge your child’s readiness for independent situations, the general rule of thumb is that children 5 and under are not old enough to walk to the bus stop at all. While children age 6 and up may be prepared to walk with a group, children should not make their way on their own until they’re at least 10.

You should also consider the route your child must take to get from their home to the bus stop. Does the path meander around abandoned houses or apartment buildings, near businesses, or along busy freeways? Is it over half a mile long? If your child only needs to walk a few blocks, can take the sidewalk, and will be helped by a crossing guard, you can feel safer about them making the trek alone. You can also invest in a scent kit to ensure that, if something did go wrong, you would have a headstart in helping find your child.

How Should I Prepare My Child for Stranger Danger?

The last thing you want is to give your child independence only for them to end up in danger. Unfortunately, young children are at risk of running into strangers with malevolent intentions. To prepare your little one, discuss the concept of “stranger danger.” Let them know that some adults may be looking to take them home, so they should never talk to or answer questions from people they don’t know.

If anyone ever claims that they received “mommy” or “daddy’s” permission to escort them, tell your child to assume this is a lie. Also, explain that some strangers might use certain tricks to convince your child to come with them, such as the promise of candy, toys, or pets. Let them know that they should ignore these invitations no matter how exciting they may seem, and tell the first trustworthy adult they encounter, such as their bus driver or teacher. If your child is ever in danger, you can use a scent kit to help the police and other emergency personnel begin searching as soon as possible.

If you’re worried about your child walking to the bus alone, set up a scent kit in advance. Scent Evidence K9 of Tallahassee, FL, provides these kits to clients around the country, to preserve the unique scent of children and other loved ones. If your child ever becomes a missing person, law enforcement can use this sample to accelerate the K9 search and rescue process. To learn more about their scent kits and order one today, visit the website. You can also call (850) 272-6950 to ask questions about how they work.