As parents, we want to keep our kids safe. We teach them to look both ways before crossing the street and not to talk to strangers. But there’s another danger lurking out there that we may not always think about: child trafficking.
Child trafficking is a serious problem in Tennessee and surrounding states. This means that kids are being taken and forced into dangerous situations by criminals. It’s scary to think about, but it’s important for parents to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect their children.
One thing to remember is that trafficking can happen to kids of any age and at any time. That’s why it’s crucial not to let younger kids roam around unsupervised, especially after dark. Even though we want our kids to have fun and explore, it’s just not safe in today’s world.
Sometimes these people can be your next door neighbor, normal Joe or Jane you talk to everyday, people who traffic children are just plain evil and many times go unnoticed, They may be looking for vulnerable kids to exploit for money or other reasons. That’s why it’s so important for parents to be vigilant and keep an eye on their kids at all times.
But it’s not just about watching them in person. We also need to be aware of what our kids are doing online. Traffickers often use social media and online gaming networks to target victims. That’s why parents need to be familiar with the apps and games their kids are using and talk to them about online safety.
If you’re not sure where to start, consider taking a class on computer and technology safety. Many local community colleges or computer shops offer classes on these topics. Being knowledgeable about technology can help you protect yourself and your family from online dangers.
If the worst does happen and your child goes missing, it’s important to act quickly. Call 911 right away and report the situation. You can also contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 for help and support.
Remember, knowledge is power. By staying informed and taking steps to protect our kids, we can help keep them safe from the dangers of child trafficking. Let’s work together to ensure that every child has the chance to grow up happy, healthy, and free from harm.
So, what can parents do to protect their children and what should they do if their child goes missing? Here are some important steps to take:
Stay Informed: Educate yourself about the signs of trafficking and how to keep your children safe. Knowledge is power, and being aware of the risks is the first step in protecting your family.
Stay Connected: Keep the lines of communication open with your children. Encourage them to talk to you about their experiences and concerns, and let them know that they can come to you if they ever feel uncomfortable or threatened.
Set Boundaries: Establish clear rules and boundaries for your children, especially when it comes to interacting with strangers or going places alone. Teach them about personal safety and the importance of trusting their instincts.
Monitor Online Activity: Keep an eye on your children’s online activities and social media accounts. Traffickers often use the internet to groom and exploit their victims, so it’s important to be vigilant and aware of who your children are talking to online.
Be Prepared: Have a plan in place in case your child ever goes missing. Make sure you have up-to-date photos and information about your child, and know who to contact and what steps to take if the worst should happen.
Human Trafficking in Tennessee: Facts, Statistics, Shelters and Prevention Organizations
The simplest way to define human trafficking is as a form of modern-day slavery. It happens in Tennessee. Human trafficking is the second-fastest growing criminal industry, next to drug trafficking. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation reported that every county in the state had a case involving human trafficking in 2020. The reality of human trafficking is that it affects people of all genders, races, nationalities, and ages. Most reported trafficking cases involve women and minors. It is estimated that a child is bought or sold for sex every two minutes. The average age of minors sold for sex is 13 years. Â
