How To Protect Your Child

Did you know that most child victims suffer abuse at the hands of someone they know and trust? Someone that YOU know and trust? We teach our kids not to talk to stranger, how do we teach them to be safe around those they are suppose to trust.  Educating yourself is the first step to preventing abuse against your children. 

Talk to your child

• Teach your children that the parts of their body that a bathing suit covers are private parts and that no one is allowed to see or touch them there.
• Encourage your child to talk to you about things that make them feel uncomfortable

Protect Your Child on the Internet

• Learn about the websites your children use regularly. Visit websites such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and others.  Parents need to be aware of what is happening on-line.
• Keep computers in common rooms of the house.  If they are in bedrooms or other uncommon areas can assist them in potentially engaging in inappropriate behavior.
• Set the rules about internet safety.
• Teach young children that they should not seek our relationships from on-line friends
• They should NEVER meet on-line friends in the real world.

Familiarize yourself your child’s extra-curriculum organization’s policies and practices

• Make sure that background checks are done on all employees and volunteers.
• Check to see if there are policies in place that prohibit situations where an adult can be alone with your child.
• Ensure they actually follow these policies

Be vigilant and ASK questions!

• Watch for changes in your child’s behavior. If your child is reluctant about going to certain places or with certain people, ask questions.
• Notice their behavior before and after spending time alone with an adult.

Pass it on. Educate yourself. Educate your community.