The following behaviours may raise safeguarding concerns, particularly when an adult is watching a young child without a legitimate reason.
- Watching a young child repeatedly from a distance without a reasonable explanation.
- Using binoculars to observe a child closely, particularly when the child is unaware they are being watched.
- Deliberately singling out one child rather than casually observing the general surroundings.
- Making unsolicited comments about a child’s beauty, attractiveness or physical appearance.
- Describing a very young child as beautiful or attractive in a way that appears focused on their physical appeal.
- Continuing to watch a child after being challenged or asked to stop.
- Positioning oneself to maintain a view of the child or repeatedly seeking opportunities to observe them.
- Following or monitoring a child’s movements without a legitimate safeguarding reason.
- Attempting to establish contact with a child who has not invited interaction.
- Taking photographs or videos of a child without appropriate permission or a legitimate reason.
- Showing unusual or persistent interest in a particular child’s whereabouts, routines or activities.
- Ignoring parental concerns or refusing to respect reasonable boundaries around the child.
- Trying to conceal the watching, photography or contact from the child’s parent or carer.
- Returning repeatedly to a location specifically to watch the same child.
