A parent of a 10-year-old calls the clinic and tells you that she recently found out that a convicted sex offender is living in their neighborhood.She asks your advice on how to protect her child.What is your best response?

A) "Keep the child indoors to prevent any contact with the sex offender."
B) "Discuss your concerns with the sex offender."
C) "Teach your child to stay away from strangers and never let another person touch her private parts."
D) "Teach your child to walk on the opposite side of the street and away from the house of the known sex offender."

The best way to protect children is to teach them how to protect themselves from strangers and sexual predators.The child should be taught not to let anyone touch her private parts or show her their private parts.She should know never to get in the car with strangers and to tell an adult or parent if another person makes her feel uncomfortable.Talking with the sex offender does not protect the child.It is impractical to keep the child indoors at all times.Walking on the opposite side of the street is not the best answer,because the child can encounter the offender in numerous settings.