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Divided Attention wrote:With 4 kids I would bet you often have at least one with you. Instill good habits now. I don't know their ages, but if they can talk and count and know their colors they can be "extra eyes". Play a game. "how many people/red shirts/hats/etc" between here and the store - between the store and the car." Help them learn to keep their eyes open. Use others oblivion to be a teaching moment with older kids. I don't allow mine to use their phone/games in the parking lots while they are walking. They need to have eyes, hands and wits available when exposed. Not to teach paranoia, just situational awareness.

This paid off on a recent trip with other kids and moms - my teen noticed so many things (not just creepers/potential creepers) but fun sights as well that the others just missed because they were just not aware of their surroundings.

JMPHO - YMMV - use those kids as lookouts, it can be fun and teaches important skills.

Chuck Amuck wrote:You're learning a new habit and like any good habit you have to work at it while until it becomes second nature. Somehow the bad habits don't require as much work but that's the way it is.

There are two parts to it. The first is knowing what to do and the second is putting it into practice. There are classes and reading that can help with the first, but for the second it's doing the work. One thing that makes it easier to make a new habit is to turn it into a game. Like if you see someone you know before they see you, you get one point.

Jihans wrote:Lock your doors as soon as you get in. A lot of people let their guard down once in the car, they start it fiddle, with the radio, etc. A lot of cars don't lock until it is put in drive. You're an easy target sitting in a car.

mack113 wrote:

Dad24GreatKids wrote:I am looking for some tips & techniques that will help me be more situationally aware, specifically in parking lots. I find that I am surprised in that environment more often than any other. SUVs can block you from seeing someone. Putting bags into the car can distract you. Tinted windows at night can make it difficult to see people in cars. Thanks in advance for your suggestions & experience.

I usually park away from other vehicles giving me a clear view when returning. This also helps when loading my purchases into the vehicle, I also scan the area until I'm ready to pull away. It's easy to be distracted in a parking lot.....stay alert!!

suthdj wrote:I dunno with 24 kids the bad guys better watch out






ya, ya I know "to four" but could not help myself.