Younger youth "runners" (kids that escape)

When you have a younger youth disappear of course it is a bigger deal than when a high school youth takes off. In this case, I am less inclined to call the parents. Like it or not, we cannot disavow responsibility like we can an 18 year old. Also, parents are more likely to go ballistic and be less understanding. As I've said elsewhere they will blame you and after they get them home blame the kid. Everyone loses. If you cannot find them in 1/2 hour or so, they may be going home and you'll need to call the parent before they get there. Explain carefully how they got away unnoticed.

• It is important to find them, no matter what it takes.
  
• Do not stop everything and make a broad search with everyone. You and whatever adults you can spare while keeping the other youth occupied. You want to keep everything low key.
  
• First check the bathrooms (someone needs to go in in case the kid is hiding in a stall and not responding to queries. After that there are no hints on where to look unless there is food somewhere.
  
• When you find them, explain to them that it is scary to you when they disappear. You worry about them until you know they are safe.