Thursday, 05 April 2007 01:21

Informational Event For Parents About Protecting Children From Child Predators

slide21On Tuesday, May 1, the Mothers' Club of Amador County will host their second event for parents providing information on how to protect children from predators. Beginning at 6 p.m., the free event will feature an hour of selections from a DVD called "Abduction Prevention Pack - The Complete Parents Guide on Child Abduction, Awareness & Self Defense," followed by open discussion. "Obviously mothers and fathers have a personal interest in protecting their children," said Leslie Vasquez, Director of the Mothers' Club, "but most of us don't know what to do. We don't want to introduce ideas the kids aren't ready for and yet it's too prevalent to go unaddressed." The DVD, which is produced by Kidz 'n Power, is a selection of prominent experts giving sound advice and speaking on the topic including how to talk to children about it and step-by-step instructions to teach children of all ages what they should do in various situations.

slide24 "Scaring children doesn't protect them. Empowering them with the appropriate knowledge does," said Dr. Bunni Tobias, Licensed Educational Psychologist, who is featured on the DVD. Shows like Dateline and Oprah address the issue but with events like these, the Mothers' Club brings it to a local level. This is the second event on this topic hosted by the Mothers' Club. Last year, the Mothers' Club brought together a panel comprised of local law enforcement, psychologists, and child protective services to discuss the topic and answer questions at a half-day seminar. This year's event will be shorter and more casual with no speakers. "I have been so inspired by this DVD that I want to share it with every parent," said Vasquez. "The fear of predators targeting our children can feel so helpless but the information on this video empowers parents and children with knowledge. There are no guarantees but there are things we can do to avoid this type of situation."  

slide27 The event is free to parents, grandparents and caregivers but participants are asked to pre-register by calling 296-3750 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. so the club can provide adequate childcare, food and materials. It will be held at the Methodist Church, 14 Main Street in Sutter Creek. Sandwiches from Backroads will be served and childcare provided. The Mothers' Club has donated a copy of this DVD to the Jackson library with several other videos on this topic as well. The Mothers' Club of Amador County was founded in 2002 to create an environment of support, education, and socialization for mothers of young children and their families. Club members provide meals to mothers for the first month of a baby's life.

As their children grow, mothers can utilize the network of moms for information on parenting, activities, playdates as well as participation in family field trips to the various zoos, bounce-houses, and various shows. Mom's Night Out dinners allow mothers to laugh, relieve stress and talk candidly with other adults. Mothers are invited to impromptu activities like snow-play dates and hikes and kept informed of local classes or events related to parenting. The club thanks the Methodist Church for donating space for meetings, activities and events. The Mothers' Club of Amador County is funded by First 5 grants and other fundraising efforts. To learn more about their organization visit www.mothersclubofamadorcounty.com. Again if you’re interested in attending the seminar pre-register by calling 296-3750 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.