Should parents teach their children how to behave around cops? It's a legitimate public concern, especially when there is a rising incident of violence involving law enforcement and civilians. It's featured in the headlines daily, which can sow fear and negativity about the police.
Media personality Michael Strahan believes that it's imperative that he talks to his children about dealing with cops. "[The] climate seems to be scarier than it ever was," observed the "Good Morning America" host, via People.
Strahan has four children from the ages of 12 to 24 and he cannot fathom the thought that one of them might be involved in an encounter with the police. However, because his older kids already drive and are on their own a lot, he believes it's important as a parent to guide them on what they must do in case they are flagged down by cops. This is to ensure their safety and the family's peace of mind.
Strahan primarily advises his children not to argue with the cops and just do as told, should this happen. "Be respectful and listen and do exactly what you're supposed to do and what you're told to do," Strahan shared. He also tells his kids to keep calm and take deep breaths before they do something they could regret.
TV host Steve Harvey also tells his sons the same thing about following the cops and being calm when accosted for a potential traffic violation. "Always speak politely. Refer to him as 'Sir,' do not raise your voice. Do not talk back," Harvey said, per Huffington Post. The TV personality has 19-year-old and 25-year-old sons.
It seems respect is the most crucial aspect of teaching children how to behave around cops. The police do say that some kids today do not show high regard for law enforcement. "We are just working hard to keep them safe. But you can tell that many of them view us as the enemy," said once cop via LifeZette.
Parents need to step up in their role of educating their children in this case. Since kids are exposed to a lot of stories on social media, it can breed a negative perception about the police. "Strong homes and families make a huge difference in relationships with law enforcement," NYPD Paul Grattan Jr. told LifeZette.
