It is very hard to predict how the person who has abused will respond. Once the adult or youth who has been harmful is aware that this behavior has been exposed, they may experience a number of different reactions. These reactions can range from fear and remorse to outright denial. It is important...
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Intervening now is key It is crucial to address sexually harmful behaviors in youth promptly, especially as they approach an age at which they can be held legally accountable for their actions. The stakes only get higher if you wait. Act now. Some things to keep in mind when talking to a child or...
When you have a question regarding your child's legal rights or you are struggling in an ongoing legal situation pertaining to your child's safety, it's important to have access to reliable legal and advocacy resources. Resources: Victim Connect (National Center for Victims of Crime) Directory...
Social media and the internet offer kids many opportunities for education, entertainment and connection. It has become a part of our everyday lives and a necessary component in many ways, even for young children. It goes beyond the computer, accessible through mobile devices, gaming platforms and...
Children’s safety in school, camps, sports, and in other extracurricular activities is more likely assured when organizations, staff, and parents learn about the steps and resources they can take to create a safer environment. Providing children with healthy sexuality education and actions they can...
Creating safe environments for student athletes in both competitive and leisure sports activities is possible when all adults, including parents and those in athletic youth-serving programs, commit to learning warning signs when codes of conduct are breached, how to speak up when there is a concern...
You can learn to recognize typical behaviors. If you are a parent or work with children, learning about sexual development is key to preventing child sexual abuse. You can learn to recognize typical behaviors -- as well as the concerning behaviors that need intervention. You can learn to talk to...
Child Molestation Research and Prevention Institute (CMRPI) Book list for parents, professionals, adults with sexual behavior concerns, adults sexually abused as children and their partners. The Safer Society Foundation Free catalog specializing in sexual abuse prevention and treatment publications.
If you suspect a child is being sexually abused, getting the proper help and support is vital. Typically, the situations that require reporting are: A child and/or adult shows numerous and consistent warning signs of abuse or being at risk to abuse A child has stated that they are being abused by...
NOTE: These tip sheets provide parents and caregivers of children with disabilities the information they need to keep their child safe from sexual abuse. Every child, disability, means of communication, and family situation is unique. Use this information with your situation in mind. This is a lot...
Choosing a school or program is one of the most complicated and emotional decisions you have to make as a parent. The specific activities, the schedule, the costs, how it matches your child’s needs and interest-- all these things play a part in your decision. Whether or not the school has a child...
Children learn best in safe environments. Most child care providers and teachers know that protecting children from physical harm includes taking actions such as monitoring stairway entrances. But what about keeping children safe from sexual harm? What actions can be taken then? Protecting Children...
Social media and the internet offer children and youth many opportunities for education, recreation, and socialization. It has become a part of our everyday lives and a necessary component in many ways, even for young children. There are many fun and positive experiences available for everyone,...
The Facts About Child Sexual Abuse Surveys of adults reveal that as many as one in three girls and one in six boys have been sexually abused before the age of eighteen. And the trauma of sexual abuse can affect the emotional and physical health of those children for the rest of their lives. Nine...
It can be hard to acknowledge that all of us, even children, are sexual beings, have sexual feelings and are curious about sex and sexuality. Children’s curiosity can lead to exploring their own and each other’s body parts by looking and touching. They may peek when family members are in the...
Any one sign doesn't mean that a child was sexually abused, but the presence of several suggests that you begin asking questions and consider seeking help. Keep in mind that some of these signs can emerge at other times of stress such as: During a divorce Death of a family member or pet Problems at...
Experience has taught us that actions by adults can be more effective than expecting kids to protect themselves from sexual abuse. Still, we know that children also need accurate, age-appropriate information about child sexual abuse and confidence that adults they know will support them. Clear...
For Parents Of Children With Disabilities Note: These tip sheets provide parents and caregivers of children with disabilities the information they need to keep their child safe from sexual abuse. Every child, disability, means of communication, and family situation is unique. Use this information...
Faith communities offer children wonderful opportunities to develop spiritually and to be part of a larger, caring community. Close caring relationships with adults are an important protective factor for children. Families who are struggling often particularly need the friendship and informal...
Summer often means new activities and increased independence for children as they try new summer programs, go to day or overnight camps, or even spend extended visits with family or friends. Recent headlines are a good reminder as we make summer plans for children that adults need to be educated,...
Talking To Coaches Who Show Inappropriate Interest In Kids Too often, the news carries stories about a bus driver, teacher, or even coach who sexually abused a child, stories that leave us wringing our hands. And yet, how many of us know what to watch out for or how to talk to our child when the...
A neighbor tells you about a “pedophile down the street,” you learn of a “sexual predator” who’s a member of your faith community, the local paper reports on “child molesters hanging around” at your kid’s school. What can you do? You thought your neighborhood was pretty safe. Suddenly, your sense...
Bringing up concerns about a child’s sexual behavior to his or her parents may feel awkward and even scary, but when you become aware of a child engaged in unhealthy sexual activity, it’s time for action steps. Parents who can work together and communicate concerns they have about children are...
For Parents Of Children With Disabilities *Program settings refer to residential, educational and recreational programs in which your child might be involved Note: These tip sheets provide parents and caregivers of children with disabilities the information they need to keep their child safe from...
Prevention steps can be taken at any time – before there is a concern that a child is being sexually abused to re-establishing safety to prevent further abuse. By becoming educated about child sex abuse, you are already becoming a proactive and protective adult. Everyone can take steps to prevent...