Human trafficking is a serious and growing issue that affects millions of people worldwide, including children and teens in the United States. It involves the exploitation of individuals through force, fraud, or coercion for the purposes of forced labor or sexual exploitation. Traffickers often target vulnerable populations, including minors, and can operate in both urban and rural areas.
In school communities, traffickers may target students online, at school, or in other public spaces. They often use manipulation, threats, and deceit to control victims, making it difficult for them to escape. Parents play a crucial role in protecting children from these dangers by staying informed and maintaining open communication with their children.
By understanding the signs of trafficking and fostering an environment of trust, parents can help prevent trafficking and ensure the safety of their children. Key indicators to watch for include sudden changes in behavior, isolation from friends and family, unexplained absences, or the presence of new, expensive items that cannot be explained.
Through education and awareness, we can work together to combat human trafficking and create a safer environment for all students.
What can parents/guardians do to keep their students safe?
1. Open Communication
Talk regularly: Encourage your children to talk about their day, their friends, and any concerns they have.
Listen actively: Make sure your children feel heard without fear of judgment, so they’re more likely to share uncomfortable situations.
Teach boundaries: Help your children understand their personal boundaries and how to say no in uncomfortable situations.
2. Monitor Online Activity
Set boundaries for online use: Create rules around social media, gaming, and chatting with strangers online.
Know who they’re talking to: Traffickers often use social media to lure kids. Make sure your children’s online friends are people they know in real life.
Discuss online safety: Teach your kids to avoid sharing personal information or photos with strangers.
3. Know the Signs
Behavior changes: Be aware of sudden changes in your child’s behavior, like withdrawing from family and friends or becoming secretive.
Unexplained absences: Pay attention to unexplained absences from school or activities.
Gifts from unknown sources: Be alert if your child suddenly has expensive gifts or money that they can’t explain.
4. Educate Your Child
Awareness of trafficking tactics: Explain how traffickers manipulate and deceive. They may pretend to be friends or romantic partners.
Trusted adults: Ensure your children know which trusted adults they can turn to if they ever feel uncomfortable or threatened.
5. Be Involved in Their Lives
Know their friends and activities: Be aware of your children’s social circle and the places they go.
Engage in school activities: Stay involved in school functions and extracurriculars to keep a connection with your child’s environment.
6. Know Your Resources
Helplines and organizations: Familiarize yourself with resources like the National Human Trafficking Hotline (1-888-373-7888) that can provide help if you suspect trafficking.
Stay informed: Keep up with local and national awareness programs about trafficking, and attend workshops or training offered by schools or community groups.
Additional Resources
National Human Trafficking Hotline SMS: 233733 (Text "HELP" or "INFO") Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week Languages: English, Spanish, and 200 more languages Website: https://humantraffickinghotline.org/en
Grand Prairie Police Department Investigator 972.237.4709
