Know the facts and the risks. Be aware of the threat that children face. Make decisions based on facts of sexual abuse rather than a level of trust in others.  For example, be aware  that disabled children are particularly vulnerable to sexual abuse.

Reduce the risks

Eliminate or reduce one-adult/one child situation involving your child. If your child is in a one-on-one situation, make unannounced visits, just check in. Monitor your child’s use of the Internet, where pedophiles can interact with children and lure them to meet in person.

Talk about it

Understand why children often keep the abuse a secret.  Remove barriers that keep them from ” telling”.  Use books or other information if you need help.

Stay alert

Don’t expect obvious signs when a child is being sexually abuse.  Be aware of subtle emotional or behavioral signs of distress.

Make a plan

Know where to go, whom to call, and how to react in the best interest of the child, even if you have no suspicions that the child is being abused.   Know that showing anger or disbelief may make a child shut down, change her story, or feel even more guilty.  Early planning will help you and child should abuse ever occur.

Act on Suspicions

Be part of the solution, not the problem.  If you have hunch, act on it; your silence will only contribute to the psychological and emotional turmoil of a child.  If you suspect a child is being abused, approach a nonoffending parent or guardian with your concern and share any information that you have.  If an adult does not act to protect  the child, call the police or your local child protective agency.  Do not question the child or approach the suspected abuser yourself.

Courtesy No Secrets No Lies.