Warning signs for parents of the several possible gang involvement indicators:

Changes in manner of dress (child always wears the same colors).
 

Use of nicknames.
 

Dropping old friends and activities and making new ones.
 

Use of slang.
 

Possession of unexpectedly large sums of money, jewelry and new clothing.
 

Possession of weapons.
 

Tattoos.
 

Can’t account for their whereabouts when asked.
 

Truancy.
 

Mood swings and the use of hand signs and graffiti.

What parents can do:

Know where your child is at all times.
 

Enforce a curfew.
 

Check for weapons and drugs in your child’s bedroom.
 

Form a neighborhood watch program in your area.
 

Show affection and support for your child, or a gang will.
 

Develop some type of responsibility in your child. 
 

Don’t always point out your child’s failures.
 

Make them feel good about themselves.
 

If your child is doing poorly at school, understand that it could be your fault.
 

Become more active in school functions.
 

Take a strong stand against gangs.
 

Show love to your child.
 

Keep an open line of communication with your child, and at all costs notify the local police of any rumors of upcoming gang violence.