With human trafficking prevention month now underway, the staff of SOS Inc. is encouraging parents to be more mindful and vigilant of their children’s activity and behaviors both in the real world and online.
Danielle Armitage of SOS, a recent guest of KVOE’s Talk of Emporia, says online solicitation is a very common practice of sexual predators. She tells parents it is important to be as educated as possible on the latest social media and internet trends and adds it is equally important to set boundaries and, if necessary, take steps to limit their child’s access to certain online content or functions.
Armitage adds that while these apps and resources are useful, they are only as effective as the parent’s own attentiveness.
When it comes to the real world, Cara Codney of SOS says parents need to be aware of who they are allowing their children to spend time with. She says oftentimes the individuals the individual most likely to victimize a child is not a stranger.
Armitage says there are several “red flags” that should alert parents their child, or others, may be a victim of sexual exploitation. This includes age-inappropriate language and knowledge of sexual content.
SOS has more helpful information available to parents and residents online at SOSKansas.com. If you believe someone you know may be the victim of human trafficking or sexual assault contact SOS by calling 620-342-1870.
