In an era where safety is paramount, a former CIA officer and FBI special agent has shared her unique perspective on child protection.
Tracy Schandler Walder, a 44-year-old Texas native, has revealed seven things she would never allow her eight-year-old daughter to do, based on her extensive experience in counterterrorism.
Walder’s professional background includes serving as a staff operations officer at the CIA’s Counterterrorism Center and as a special agent at the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office.
Her insights into safety measures are not just theoretical but are grounded in real-world experiences, making them invaluable for parents seeking to protect their children in an increasingly complex world.
Online schooling can put children at risk for exposure to child sexual abuse material. Visit https://t.co/vmkdK7o0jw for tips on how to talk with your children about internet safety, specifically what to do if they see child sexual abuse images. @MissingKids @nctsn pic.twitter.com/4r0roN0iZx
— FBI (@FBI) November 14, 2020
The precautions she takes as a mother are informed by her understanding of global threats and crime trends. She shares these insights on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, providing practical advice to parents who may not have access to such specialized knowledge.
Her tips range from monitoring internet usage to being cautious about sleepovers, reflecting a comprehensive approach to child safety. Her advice has been met with widespread approval, with many parents expressing their agreement with her safety measures.
One parent commented, “I always be stalking people who are in my kids’ lives, no sleepovers, monitor internet, only my teen has a phone and more … my kids will not become a statistic if I can at all help it! (And they never go to public restroom alone EVER).”
This sentiment underscores the importance of vigilance in ensuring children’s safety.
Parents: With summer activities upon us, you can have peace of mind & keep your kids safe by following these tips. Check out the "FBI’s Summer Safety Tips for Parents" flyer for more info: https://t.co/N1kSlakP1g. pic.twitter.com/CVXQt8TcbF
— FBI San Antonio (@FBISanAntonio) June 18, 2023
Another supporter appreciated the professional touch in Walder’s advice, stating, “I love number 4 the most. That’s very CIA and I am on board.” This response highlights the value of expert advice in navigating the challenges of parenting in today’s world.
However, it’s important to note while these measures provide a layer of protection, they are not foolproof. The world is unpredictable and no amount of precaution can guarantee absolute safety.
Parents must balance these measures with the need to allow children to grow, explore, and learn from their experiences.
Walder’s advice offers a unique perspective on child safety, informed by her professional experience in counterterrorism. While these measures are not a panacea, they provide a valuable starting point for parents seeking to protect their children in an increasingly complex world.
