Shannon Blackwell posted on May 12, 2009 07:48
We'll be out and about this upcoming Saturday, May 16th at a DIGIKIDS-ID event at the Bartonville Health Fair. Actually, we’re more than attending, we’re sponsoring it. Haven’t heard of DIGIKIDS? You’re not alone. But that’s changing. And as soon as you learn about what they're doing, you’ll be at this event on Saturday.
Taking a cue from the Boy Scouts to “Always be prepared!”, DIGIKIDS is a digital ID with photos and information about your child. If your child ever goes missing, you will have the right information to give the authorities on-the-spot which makes finding your child easier, actually increasing the odds in your favor. Hard topic to think about, I know. Go here to read more about it and learn exactly what they do.
I am an admitted control freak about a lot of things - and I am absolutely paranoid about child safety. (I’ll blame watching too many shows on cable.) But all that does serve a greater good because as summer approaches, I have a plan to share with you. It’s cobbled together over the years for my peace of mind when we go to a very public place (amusement parks, etc) with my son.
Before we enter, using my cell phone, I take two pictures: a face close-up and full length so that I have a record of exactly what he is wearing. Then I give him a tattoo of my phone number. Well, not a real tattoo, obviously. Since he's too young to remember, I take a Sharpie pen and write my cell number on his stomach. Hey, it’s water and sweat proof. Are you laughing yet?? I know it sounds bizarre. But I am not going to take any chances if I can help it.
That was my plan. All of it. Good thing for all of us, DIGIKIDS ID does a much better job. I have a handy digital way to help get his picture and info out instantly. And best of all, only I have his information. It is NOT stored in a database where it is vulnerable to hacking. So I am not as paranoid. And .. drumroll... the ID is free because of the sponsors! Why wouldn't a parent do this for their children?
Spend 5 minutes with Barbara Walker, the owner of the DIGIKIDS franchise in Denton County, and you'll get it. She is phenomenal (and a complete hoot on Facebook - I look forward to her updates). She told me she doesn't allow the kids to smile in the pictures because if they get lost, the last thing they'll be doing is smiling, so why would you want to circulate a picture of them smiling? Such a simple concept, and one I would have never thought of!
So come out this Saturday and meet Barbara (and the moms from MomCheck), get an ID, and enjoy the Bartonville Healthfair. Did I mention that the ID is FREE?!!
See you on Saturday - and I'll have my Sharpie!