we were given much more specific advice, things along these lines: If a stranger offers you candy or toys or a ride, don't take them, don't go with him, and find somebody else to tell about him. If you're lost, find a policeman or someone who works in a store to ask for help. Notice that both of these examples can involve approaching strangers for help! The general message was always that a stranger approaching a child to offer favors is suspicious, but a child should go ahead and approach strangers for help who aren't acting suspiciously.