Say "No" to Back-to-School Signs

Ok, here’s the deal, we’re not trying to be total fun sponges but it’s our job to point out the potential safety hazards in seemingly normal things. Every year, we all see the colorful back-to-school signs that parents create. Harmless, right?

Wrong.

Yes, we’re about to rain on a lot of parades right now, but stick with us. Back-to-school signs with too much information are basically a kidnapper’s guide to your child, especially when that sign is shared all over social media along with your child’s face.

Does it sound like someone’s overprotective parent is writing this? Perhaps. And you wouldn’t be totally wrong. However, giving out that much information can be harmful especially when it’s all put together on one sign.

Here’s what to leave off of your kid’s back-to-school sign:

• First and last name
• Age
• Grade
• Teacher’s name
• Favorite color (and other favorites)
• School name
• Bus number

And, since we’re already ruining everyone’s fun, quit putting your kid’s name on their backpack.

Why does this all matter? Because if someone knows this information and approaches your child, information like this may make a kidnapper seem trustworthy. Kids are still learning about stranger danger and don’t always know that a person who knows their name, their parents’ names, or any of the information listed above could be dangerous.

So, do yourself a favor this back-to-school season and forego the back-to-school signs. Or, at the very least, limit the information you put on these signs. They’re not necessary and can do more harm than good.

Have any questions about what you just read? Please contact your Independent Insurance Agent or email us at socialmedia@psmic.com!