Define the concept of a stranger in a positive, reassuring manner. Parents and caretakers should help a child correctly define the term "stranger." Help your child understand who has permission to talk and interact with him and who is identified as family, close friends or emergency contacts. Set a positive tone and stress the idea that it is important to be safe without feeling scared of new people.
Use age-appropriate facts about what the child should and should not do. Kindergarten students do not have the developmental skills to analyze people's behavior, so it is important to give them concrete instructions about what they should and should not do in relation to strangers. For example, a child should tell a stranger he is not allowed to talk to or take gifts from someone he does not know. Ask your child to introduce the person to you. Do not expect a child of this age to be able to assess a stranger's motivations or character.
Role-play scenarios to help the child understand the concept of strangers and safety. Explain basic scenarios to your child, such as a stranger approaching her in the school yard or in a store, and role-play responses she should have if a stranger offers her something or engages her in conversation. Make these role-playing games fun and engaging, but also stress that individual safety is important and strangers must meet you, as a parent, before they have interactions with the child.
Create clear guidelines for emergency situations. As kindergarten students begin to attend school and take part in activities outside of the home, there is a higher likelihood that issues such as illness or transportation problems can occur. Make clear plans regarding what your child should do if you are late to pick him up, if he is sick during school, or if he ever gets separated from you in a public place. Identify trustworthy adults such as teachers or police officers and have your child memorize his address and telephone number for safety purposes.