Child Sexual Abuse Awareness and Prevention

WHAT TO TEACH YOUR CHILDREN

Parents can learn the extent of the problem of child sexual abuse and then let their children know that:

Not all adults care about children’s feelings.
Children can say no even to adults when frightened or confused by them.
Children have the right to the privacy of their own bodies.
Teach children they have the right to refuse demands for physical closeness if it makes them feel uncomfortable. Assure them it is all right to say NO even to close friends and relatives.
Teach children to distinguish between good touches, bad touches and those confusing touches.
Caution children against playing alone in isolated places.
Children can tell a trusted adult if they are touched in a way that makes them feel uncomfortable.
Tell your children how to reach you in case of emergencies.
Take time to play the “What if” game (a pretend game) with your children.

HOW DO CHILDREN REACT TO SEXUAL ABUSE

Children’s reactions differ with their ages and personalities, and the nature of the offense. Sometimes, they seem not to be upset; often they are frightened or confused by sexual assault, especially if committed by a cousin, sibling, uncle/aunt, parent, step-parent or grandparent. The child may be afraid to tell for fear of punishment, of blame, or of disbelief. The child may not want to “make problems” for the offender. Older children are often too embarrassed to tell anyone.

EFFECTS ON THE VICTIM

A child who experiences sexual assault need not be damaged permanently. With proper emotional support, the effect of the incident can be dealt with properly. Take advantage of counseling in your community.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU SUSPECT CHILD ABUSE

Believe your child’s story. Don’t deny the problem or blame the child.
Stay calm. Intense emotions will frighten the child. A quiet, unhurried conversation conveys calmness.
Never punish the child. Sexual abuse is the fault of the abuser.
Assure your child that you still love him/her, regardless of what has happened.
Tell the child he/she is safe and will not be harmed.
Although sexual abuse is a crime, do not take the law into your own hands.
Get help immediately!
Contact: Your Police Department, Child Protective Service Agency Human or Social Service Agency

IMPORTANT: YOUR CHILD SHOULD BE AWARE THAT HEALTHY SEXUALITY IS DIFFERENT FROM SEXUAL ABUSE. BE PREPARED TO ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS.