My daughter usually spends some weekends with her dad, but this time something felt different. She called me unexpectedly and casually mentioned “blueberries,” our secret code word we created to signal danger or discomfort. Hearing that word sent my heart racing I knew she needed help but couldn’t say it outright. It reminded me how important it is for kids to have a way to reach out safely when they feel trapped or scared.

I first taught her the code word as a fun safety tool to use if she ever wanted to leave a sleepover or awkward situation without explaining everything. I never expected she would have to use it so soon. When Amy said it during our phone call, I stayed calm but immediately planned to get her. I told her to stay quiet and that I was on my way, knowing this simple word could protect her in a big way.

When I arrived, I met a woman I didn’t know my ex-husband’s new girlfriend who had moved in without me being informed. Amy later told me that the woman was mean to her when her dad wasn’t around, calling her annoying and telling her not to bother them. Amy was scared and didn’t know how to speak up, but the code word gave her a secret way to ask for help without raising suspicion.

After taking Amy safely home, I called my ex to explain what happened. He promised to handle the situation seriously. This experience showed me just how vital it is for parents to create a secret code with their children a small, easy step that can make all the difference when kids need a lifeline but can’t say it directly.