It is probably worth taking steps to avoid identity theft, for oneself and one's dependents.

• references on identity theft including about children
• Dont post SSNs, or write on paper or give to doctor/dentist/school/etc offices. It is rarely actually needed by them (if ever: many claim so, when not so).
• And similarly for other personal info, even being careful to whom one gives one's drivers license (or image) of it.