My child is missing, what do I do? A step-by-step approach.
Leveraging established recommendations from both government and private agencies, like NCMEC and AMBER Alert EU, we've outlined a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the critical moments when you discover your child is missing.
IMPORTANT
INFO
INFO
Employ the First Look, Then Think approach.
FIRST LOOK
Search your house fully - this includes any area into which a child could crawl or hide, for example, closets, laundry piles, under beds, vehicle trunks, or washing or drying machines, and other appliances.
THEN THINK
Think of any reasons why your child might have gone missing and where they could be. Try to call your child, their friends or parents, and look on your child's social media channels.
WHEN TO REPORT YOUR CHILD MISSING
Contact your local law enforcement agency as soon as you have determined your child is missing. Remember, there is no waiting period required to file a missing child report in the United States.
STEP ONE
LOOK
Begin by checking for any signs of where they might have gone.
TODDLERS
Begin by thoroughly searching your home and immediate surroundings, including any areas where a child could crawl or hide, such as closets, laundry piles, under beds, inside appliances, and vehicles, including trunks. Remember to check potentially dangerous locations like pools, ponds, or nearby busy streets.
SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN
Start by searching your home and the immediate neighborhood, including places where a child might be drawn to, such as parks, playgrounds, or friends' houses. Check with your child's friends and their parents to see if they have any information.
TEENAGERS
Begin by checking your teen's room and any communication channels they use, such as social media or messaging apps. Reach out to their friends and ask if they have any information.
STEP TWO
THINK
Think of any reasons why your child might have gone missing and where they could be.
TODDLERS
If you can't find your toddler, immediately contact law enforcement and provide them with all necessary details about your child, including their name, age, appearance, and unique identifiers.
SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN
When searching for a school-aged child, consider their routines and recent activities. Where does your child typically go after school? Have they mentioned any places they wanted to visit, friends they wanted to see, or events they wanted to attend? Are there any favorite spots they frequent?
TEENAGERS
If your teenager is missing, consider any recent changes in their behavior, circumstances, or social circles. Have they been acting differently, spending time with new people, or showing signs of trouble? Was there an argument or incident before they disappeared? Remember, sometimes teenagers need space, but it's crucial to rule out any potential risks to their safety.
STEP THREE
REPORT
Call your local police to report your child missing.
WHEN TO REPORT YOUR CHILD MISSING
Contact your local law enforcement agency as soon as you have determined your child is missing. Do not delay. Time is of the essence when a child is missing, and there is no waiting period required to file a missing child report.
Do you want to help save lives?
Fill out the form and sign up to join US.Watch as a volunteer watcher - helping search when called upon.
We only need your phone number to push enhanced Wireless Alerts directly to your phone.
Help our missing - join the Watch!

Do you want to help save lives?
Fill out the form and sign up to join US.Watch as a volunteer watcher - helping search when called upon.
We only need your phone number to push enhanced Wireless Alerts directly to your phone.
Help our missing - join the Watch!

Do you want to help save lives?
Fill out the form and sign up to join US.Watch as a volunteer watcher - helping search when called upon.
We only need your phone number to push enhanced Wireless Alerts directly to your phone.
Help our missing - join the Watch!

Do you want to help save lives?
Fill out the form and sign up to join US.Watch as a volunteer watcher - helping search when called upon.
We only need your phone number to push enhanced Wireless Alerts directly to your phone.
Help our missing - join the Watch!

Volunteer
Organization
© 2025 US.Watch by Alert Link, LLC
Volunteer
Organization
© 2025 US.Watch by Alert Link, LLC
