The family code word is a pre-determined word that should be very easy for your child to remember, but one that would be very difficult for someone else to guess. THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT! I will repeat this: The code word must be simple for your child to remember, yet very difficult for someone to guess. Some suggestions I recommend to use would be names of animals, such as, crocodile, giraffe, baboon, goldfish. DO NOT USE names that are common around your house. Remember NEVER ever use the name of your child's favorite animal or pet.

     Never choose a "code word" that is from things that are common to your family or house. Be creative, and make this a fun activity with your children. And be very specific. Don't just decide on "bear" for your code word, how about using a "purple bear." Remember, child safety should be fun. You don't want to frighten your children.

     How does my child use the code word system? If anyone say's they are there to pick up your child on your authority, your child should know to ask that person, "What's the code word?" You should teach your child to disbelieve anyone who tries to pick them up if they do not know the code word. Then they should go directly to a trusted adult, such as a teacher.

     After any emergency situation that arises where the code word must be used, the family needs to pick a new code word. Emphasize to the children that they should no longer respond to the old one. Be sure to review the new code word often enough to help al family members to remember it.

     Allow me to conclude this section on safety words by telling you that code words work. They have saved the lives of many children. This simple, yet highly effective tool is widely used by many families. There have been many, many police reports of children using the code word tool successfully.