Know who has access to your children

Every time I hear that the public is being notified of a registered sex offender moving into a certain neighborhood, I cringe. I cringe because before they are known sex offenders, they are unknown. It is my understanding that statistics state that prior to their first conviction, they have molested 60 to 80 victims. How many lives have been ruined?

Look at the over 200 gymnasts who were molested by the team doctor, the man in authority. Think of others in authority involved with our children. All I’m saying is be aware of where your kids are and who they are involved with. Most important, have that comfortable open communication between you and your kids. Believe what they say. Always have their back.

It bothers me that some women with children will open their homes to men they basically just met. Startling fact: there are pedophiles who will date and even marry a woman with children simply to gain access to those children. Sick but true.

School districts, youth sports leagues, et cetera do background checks on those people who will be involved with the youth. Think about it. It might be smart to consider doing background checks on someone you have uneasy feelings about, even someone who is getting really close to your family. Better to be safe than sorry. Check with your local authorities on how to do a background check.

Where all kids are concerned, don’t be over-trusting. Watch, observe all the time. You don’t have to be paranoid, just careful. Keep the kids safe.

Joan M. Green

Moses Lake