Seeing four bold letters—SSSS—printed on a child’s boarding pass can feel like a punch to the gut. Your heart drops, and your mind starts racing. Did we do something wrong? Is my child in danger? The letters can look like a secret code or warning, especially when a child is traveling alone or a parent is already nervous about flying. But the meaning behind them is far less alarming than it first appears.

SSSS stands for “Secondary Security Screening Selection.” It means the traveler has been selected for additional security screening before boarding. This may involve extra questions, a closer examination of their belongings, or additional screening procedures. While the process can mean more waiting and inconvenience, the designation does not mean the traveler has been accused of a crime or is considered dangerous.

For parents, preparation can make the experience much less frightening. Explain to your child that airport security sometimes selects passengers for additional screening and that they are not in trouble. Let them know that an officer may ask them to step aside, inspect their bag, or ask a few questions. If they do not understand something, they can calmly ask the officer to repeat or explain it.

The experience may feel uncomfortable, particularly for a young traveler, but it is generally just an extra security step. Once the screening is complete, the child can continue toward the gate like any other passenger. Those four letters may look intimidating on a boarding pass, but understanding what they mean can turn a moment of panic into something much more manageable.