It’s a truly panicked moment when you realize you’ve been separated from your child while travelling. Make sure you follow these tips and prep your children so everyone is ready with a plan should the worst happen.
TOP TIPS
Make sure your children know what to do if they get lost. Tell them to find someone in a uniform and not to go anywhere with strangers.
Write your cell number on a sticker and fix it to their clothes and have older kids memorize the name of the hotel you’re staying at and the closest street intersection to it.
Choose a large landmark, which is easy to find and tell your children that if you lose them, that is where you meet. As soon as you get to a busy public place choose a meeting point.
Dress them in bright, easily recognizable clothes, so you can spot them when you’re out and about.
Try not to panic – we know it is easier said that done but it’s important to think clearly.
Make sure someone is supervising your other children before you go looking and ensure one person stays in the same place at all times, in case your child comes back.
Check nearby play areas or spaces that are good for hiding – under tables, behind statues, for example.
Tell a member of staff, if you’re in a museum, shop or art gallery they can arrange for an alert over the intercom.
Ask the doormen if they’ve seen anything.
Call your villa or hotel, an older child might know their way back there.
Contact the local police and the police at home and if you’re abroad ask them to inform Interpol, who can contact the relevant foreign police.