One of the first things children learn to write in school is their name. And they write it everywhere. Having a sense of identity is good, but putting their identity out for the world to see can be dangerous.

Don't let a stranger trick your children by calling out their names after seeing them printed on their backpacks, T-shirts, or other personal items. Even simple initials can easily be guessed by strangers and give them the opportunity to trick your children. Don't put names in visible places on notebooks, lunch boxes, bicycles, or sports equipment.

For more on protection from tricks and lures that strangers might use see Keeping Kids Safe.