How do I teach stranger safety without making my young child scared of everyone?

Focus on actions rather than appearances, since most strangers are harmless and 'scary-looking' people aren't the real risk. Teach the rule that no adult should ask a child for help or to keep secrets, and that they can say no and find a trusted adult. Frame it as knowing what to do, which builds confidence rather than fear.

What should I tell my child to do if they get separated from me in a shop or park?

Teach them to stay where they are and look for a 'safe stranger' to ask, such as a person working there (a till assistant or someone in uniform) or a mum or dad with children. Practise saying your full name and phone number. Agreeing a clear plan in advance helps a lost child stay calm and act quickly.

Stranger Awareness for Young Children

Age-appropriate ways to teach 5–7 year olds about staying safe around people they do not know, both online and offline.

Teaching young children about stranger safety requires a balanced approach — you want them to be cautious without making them fearful of the world. At this age, children can begin to understand the difference between trusted adults and strangers, and learn simple rules to follow if they feel unsafe.

Who Is a Trusted Adult?

Help your child identify three to five trusted adults they can go to if they need help — such as a parent, grandparent, teacher, or family friend. Practise their names together so your child knows exactly who to turn to. Explain that a trusted adult is someone they know well and see regularly, not just someone who seems friendly.

Simple Safety Rules

Teach your child never to go anywhere with someone they do not know, even if that person says a parent sent them. Practise a family code word that only trusted adults would know. Role-play scenarios so your child feels confident about what to do if a stranger approaches them.

Online Stranger Awareness

Even at this young age, children may encounter other people in online games or video platforms. Explain that people online are not always who they say they are. Reinforce the rule that they should never share their name, school, or photo with anyone online and should tell a parent immediately if someone they do not know talks to them.

External sources

Keeping children safe — NSPCC
Advice for parents and carers — Thinkuknow (CEOP)

Frequently Asked Questions

This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.