Sister of Mount Carmel Mary Ellen Wheelahan, safe environment coordinator of the Archdiocese of New

➤ Make sure your child knows where you are at all times, whether your child is a toddler or a high school student.
➤ Never leave your child unattended on a parade route. Identify the law enforcement officers in the area in case your child is separated from you. Teach your child your cell phone number in case he/she may need it.
➤ Talk to your child about saying “No” to any unwanted talk or contact with others while at the parades. Notice anyone in the crowd who may try to pay a great deal of attention to your child.
➤ Keep your child a safe distance from the floats and movement of the actual parade. Be attentive also to the noise level for younger children.
➤ Take a picture of your child on your cell phone the day of the parade – you will have a picture of exactly what your child is wearing in case he/she gets separated from you.
➤ Supervise your child when he/she has to go to a restroom.
➤ Remember that your child depends on you for his/her safety. Children are gifts given to us by a loving God and they are deserving of the time and effort it takes for us to protect them.