DEAR ABBY: I am the father of an 8-year-old daughter, "Lindsey." She is my world. Her mom and I split when Lindsey was 2. She has remarried. We are all civil, and things are good.
Lindsey is getting to the age in which sleepovers at friends' houses are happening, which is fine because I know a few of them and their parents. I'm worried about the fathers or older brothers of the ones I don't know. How do you ask or tell an 8-year-old about the dangers of pedophiles without scaring her? This is my biggest fear. -- DAD IN LOUISIANA
DEAR DAD: I assume that, as a conscientious parent, you are not sending your little girl off to stay with complete strangers. Make it a point to meet and talk with the parents of the girls who are having the sleepovers. If that's not possible, your ex should do it so you can both be assured that the party will be properly supervised.
You should also make sure your daughter knows that she can talk to you anytime about anything and you will listen, answer her questions and support her.
I assume that Lindsey's mother has already started the dialogue about the facts of life. Talk to your ex about your concerns and ask what she has discussed with Lindsey about boundaries, inappropriate touching and that Lindsey knows she can come to either of you if anyone makes her uncomfortable. The most effective way to protect a child is to ensure that there is open, comfortable communication on any subject.