Frequently Asked Questions

What do students learn when they participate in the Think First & Stay Safe School Program?

The Think First & Stay Safe personal safety program teaches youngsters life skills to protect them from predatory crimes, both offline and online. It gives them the ability to distinguish between appropriate and inappropriate behavior and to recognize and avoid potentially dangerous people and situations. It encourages children to treat others with respect and dignity – and to expect the same from others.

How do I PREVIEW Think First & Stay Safe for my SCHOOL or SCHOOL DISTRICT?

We welcome your request to review the Think First & Stay Safe! School Program kit. The process is simple and free:

• At your request, we send the Program, at no charge.
• We encourage you to take 30-60 days to review the Program.
• We can provide a list of References for you to contact in your area.
• We are happy to provide additional information or materials, should you need them.
• We are readily available to answer any questions that may arise during your review.

To arrange a preview of the Think First & Stay Safe! School Program kit, please e-mail us.

How was Think First & Stay Safe developed?

Investigative reporter and author Ken Wooden interviewed hundreds of convicted sex offenders to uncover the variety of lures they use to secure victims. A former educator, Wooden combined these lures with time-tested prevention strategies to develop the Think First & Stay Safe program.

SEE ALSO: History of the Child Lures School Program

Is Think First & Stay Safe ever updated?

Yes. Since its creation in 1985, Think First & Stay Safe has been continuously updated and expanded to address the latest issues and safety concerns facing today’s children, based on the invaluable input of educators, parents and students.

Does the program offer a balanced perspective?

Yes. Youngsters are repeatedly reassured that the vast majority of people are sincerely committed to the happiness and well-being of children and would not take advantage of them. Those who prey on children are the exception.

Has the program been proven to work?

Yes. Think First & Stay Safe has been scientifically evaluated and shown to be highly effective in safeguarding youngsters, based on the federally-mandated “Principles of Effectiveness.” It has been enthusiastically adopted by thousands of schools in 43 states. (See "Program Evaluations")

Does the Child Lures Prevention School Program address bullying?

Yes. The School Program addresses bullying and harassment offline and online and teaches students how to avoid and report these unacceptable behaviors. The importance of reporting all crimes and getting help from trusted adults is stressed.

Does the program address juvenile perpetrators?

Yes. As much as 40% of all childhood sexual abuse is perpetrated by children, on children. The Think First & Stay Safe program emphasizes that it is illegal for anyone – even a peer – to cross over the line from affection to sexual abuse.

Is Think First & Stay Safe age-appropriate?

Yes. The Presenter’s Guide contains age-appropriate lesson plans for Grades K-2, 3-6 and 7-12. Presenters are encouraged to fine-tune each lesson, based on the maturity and sophistication of students. Presenters may wish to limit presentations for Grades K-2 to the Cornerstone Lesson Plans. Lures Lesson Plans may be added at the discretion of the presenter.

What does the program kit consist of?

1. Presenter's Guide: Includes easy-to-follow scripted lesson plans, practice scenarios, follow-up activities, pre/post tests, and tools for parental involvement.
   
   
2. Presenter's Video: "Training for Prevention": In this straightforward training video, Think First & Stay Safe creator Ken Wooden guides presenters through the program and shares highlights of his own presentations to students of various ages.
   
   
3. Student Video: "Luring: What Would You Do?": Four realistic dramatizations allow students to clearly visualize just how easily they may be lured into victimization. (Recommended for Grades 3 and up.)
   
   
4. Child Lures Prevention Parent Guide: This 20-page parent handbook summarizes the School Program and offers ideal home reinforcement. Available in English, Spanish and Polish.
   
   
5. Posters: Available for free download.

Who teaches Think First & Stay Safe?

Typically, the program is taught by a school counselor, nurse or health/phys-ed teacher. In some schools, classroom teachers present the Program. It is suggested that guidance counselors act as coordinators and be readily available for victimized children’s needs.

How long does it take to teach the program?

Many presenters opt to follow the suggested one or two week presentation timetables found in the Presenter’s Instruction Guide; others create their own. Think First & Stay Safe can conform to the time constraints of any classroom. Single lesson plans can be taught in as little as 10-15 minutes.

How do we involve parents?

For any prevention program to be truly successful, schools must enlist the support of parents. Prior to classroom presentations, schools are encouraged to hold an informational meeting where parents can watch the presenter’s and student videos, review the lesson plans, and raise any questions or concerns they may have.

Distribution of the Think First & Stay Safe Parent Guide gives parents and other caregivers the ability to reinforce prevention strategies at home. Parents should also receive a copy of the take-home flyer, "Tips for Parents," located in the Presenter’s Guide. Schools are also welcome to link to childluresprevention.com for free additional resources and information for parents and schools alike.

Does the Think First & Stay Safe School Program have permanence?

Yes. Once a school district or one of its schools adopts the Think First & Stay Safe program, it becomes a permanent resource that may be incorporated into the existing health curriculum. Targeted grades, as well as new students and personnel, can be trained each year.

How do we fund this program for each school in our district?

Schools employ Safe & Drug-free School Funds, grants, Safe Schools/Healthy Kids Initiative, At-Risk Funds, PTA sponsorship, as well as general funds. Area businesses and civic organizations are usually more than willing to sponsor the Think First & Stay Safe School Program and/or Parent Guides for local schools. Click here for more information on funding options.

Can I read references or testimonials from schools that have implemented Think First & Stay Safe?

Yes. Please see our Program Testimonials page.

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