1. Talk To Your Kids: Educate your children about boundaries, what constitutes appropriate and inappropriate behavior, and when they should come to you if they experience something they deem uncomfortable or wrong. Explain the difference between secrets and surprise gifts, and that secrets that involve their bodies (or the bodies of others) are unacceptable. Encourage them to tell you if something doesn’t feel right or if somebody does something to them that makes them feel uncomfortable.
2. Pay Attention: Get to know your children’s friends, teachers, and any other caretakers. Pay attention to any changes in your children’s behavior or emotions. If something seems out of place, don’t be afraid to start asking questions.
3. Set Rules & Boundaries: Establish boundaries for social media and screen time. Explain to your children what is and isn’t allowed online and impose consequences for breaking those rules.
4. Teach Them About Their Bodies: Educate your children on the proper names of body parts and explain that no one has the right to touch them without their consent. Explain that no matter who it is, they can and should say no if they don’t feel comfortable.
5. Make Your Home a Safe Space: Keep your home safe and secure by teaching your children to always lock up and use the privacy settings on their devices. Also, install a home security system to alert you of any intruders who may enter your home.
6. Check in Regularly: While it’s important to give your children space to explore and learn on their own, it’s also important to check in regularly. Ask questions about their day and how they are doing so that you can make sure nothing is off or out of the ordinary.
7. Set an Example: It’s important for your children to see you as someone who is open to talking about uncomfortable topics, handles difficult situations with respect, and allows them to share their concerns without judgment. Show them that if they ever need help with something, you are ready to listen and assist.
8. Seek Professional Help: If you fear that abuse may be occurring, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Talk to your family doctor, a mental health provider, or contact the National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD.
