Information For Parents | Be the Elephant

TALKING TO KIDS ABOUT ABUSE IN THE NEWS

Click the above title for up-to-date information from Darkness to Light, an advocacy organization

Steps to Prevention

No parent wants to face the possibility that their child has been abused.

One in ten children have been sexually abused before their 18th birthday
36% of child victims are under the age of 11 years old
90% are abused by someone the family trusts

Here are five steps to get you started to help keep your child safe:

Minimize the Opportunity

80% of sexual abuse incidents happen in isolated, one-on-one situations

Visit your child's classrooms, gyms, church areas, Scouting venues, sporting venues, etc. Do you see places that cause you concern? Address it with the adult(s) in charge.

2. Watch for Grooming Behaviors

Sexual abusers use grooming to build trust in the victim and the adults around the victim

Grooming can include taking children on special outings such as going to get ice cream, taking them to the park and/or the movies, including them on weekend trips, etc.

3. Inappropriate Communication

Limit your child's contact with other adults outside of regular organized activities

Monitor your child's phone and on-line activities, including messaging apps, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram. Click here for a list of apps to watch for.

4. Changes in Your Child's Behavior

You might see signs of abuse before your child tells you

Falling grades, silence, depression, a sudden need to be "perfect", drug and/or alcohol use are some of the behaviors that can signify sexual abuse

5. Listen to Your Child and Trust Your Instincts

Your child might try to tell you about an adult they don't feel comfortable with

Listen to what your child says about other adults. Is the adult around children more than other adults? Does the adult offer to babysit, drive your child to and from activities? Is the adult too good to be true? Trust your child. Trust your instincts.

Elaine Wilson-Reddy