top of page

Your child has run away

What am I doing?

Gather as much information as possible

Click to learn more

Fugue Squad 3.png
  • Contact friends, his school... Have they seen him, do they have any particular information to note?
  • Did he bring any items? Look in his room,
  • Try to determine the last place he was seen, his friends, his background, his state of mind.
  • Had he changed his behavior, his group of friends?
  • Check out his social media

Dial 911

Click to learn more

Escape Squad 1.png
  • If no one has seen him or been able to get in touch with him,
  • A police officer will come to collect information to find your child.
  • A reporting form on the Réseau Enfants-Retour website can help you prepare: description, size, photo, etc. Their list of friends with contact details, their habits, etc.

If your child contacts you

Click to learn more

Fugue Squad 8.png
  • While he's running away, stay calm. Even if it can be difficult. The key is to maintain a relationship with him, regardless of whether he decides to return or not, and regardless of his condition.
  • Tell him you're relieved to hear from him, but label your worry, anxiety, or sadness so your child doesn't interpret your calmness as a lack of interest.

Click to learn more

Fugue Squad 4.png

When making contact, if you fear for their safety

  • Avoid blaming him, making promises, insisting if he refuses to tell you where he is, using threats or blackmail to get him to come back; he might break off communication.

  • Ask him closed-ended questions instead :

  • Are you safe?

  • Can you speak freely?

  • Can you get out of where you are?

  • Do you want me to go and get you?

  • And if your child is in danger, it is possible that he or she will tell you.

Click to learn more

Fugue Squad 10.png

Preparing for your child's return

Prepare to negotiate your child's return. Whether during their runaway or after their return, sooner or later you will have to talk with them to try to resolve the situation.

Here are some ideas for reflection:

  • Why did he leave?

  • What is the meaning of his escape?

  • What message does he want to convey to you?

  • What do you think are the possible compromises?

  • What are your limits? How can you avoid running away again?

  • You can be supported in this process.

  • The Antechamber 12-17

  • CLSC

Click to learn more

Fugue Squad 6.png

Your child is not ready to come back

  • It is important not to break off communication . Suggest phone meetings or email exchanges.

  • Clearly determine the frequency of these meetings or exchanges, for example every day, every other day.

  • You can also suggest meeting your child in a neutral location, such as a cafe, to talk with them. If they agree, go yourself to maintain the bond of trust.

Click to learn more

Fugue Squad 12.png

Take care of yourself

  • You'll need all your energy to welcome them back. Your child's runaway may trigger a range of emotions. Don't beat yourself up. Don't remain isolated.

  • The more people you mobilize, the greater your chances of finding your child. Don't hesitate to contact resources that can support you during this difficult time.

Click to learn more

Fugue Squad 5.png

Above all

Before posting your child's runaway story on social media, take the time to check with youth workers. A photo can circulate for a long time and be reposted at an inopportune moment.

Here are some websites to guide you

Longueuil

Another prevention guide for parents of runaways: “ Come back to stay ”

VAT

Following the Fugueuse series, video capsules and information were made available to parents.

bottom of page