Virtual chat: Chief Inspector Tim Bonnett

A: Schools do have a role to play in educating about Stranger Danger and most areas have a set programme. It depends on the school and the local police officers when this is given as a programme. Personal safety is actually part of the national curriculum in PSE at primary level.

The most important educator of children will always be the parent. Talk to your children about the issues. Take an interest in their lives so you know their friends and what they do.

Q: Recently there was a story about a man who tried to snatch a baby from under the mother's nose. Having a nine-month-old son, I am too scared to go out alone because of this.
Chele

A: The instance you talk of is very, very unusual. From my experience, what may have happened is that person was perhaps someone with mental health issues who did not realise the panic that his actions would cause.

If, as you say, you are scared to go out alone, it is very important that you talk to your health visitor or your parent or a friend about your concern. You must not feel the need to restrict yourself in this way. However you may want to look for a bit of support to get you back out there, confident that you and your baby are safe. It may help your confidence if you use restrainer straps on the baby attached to the buggy.

It is important that you deal with this issue now as, as your child gets older, it is important that you do not stifle them and over-restrict their freedom. This can lead to rebellion and them running away, which is precisely what you do not want.

Why not chat with other iVillagers about child safety on the Your Child's Safetymessage board. Take a look at some of the LIVE discussions happening right now on the board: