Five Tips for Protecting Kids from Abuse and Molestation
Child sexual abuse is an all-too common crime that is consistently under-reported. According to RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network), of the reported cases between 2009-2013, 80% of the perpetrators were a parent. It’s upon teachers, other caregivers, and community members to be alert for any potential issues to report suspicious activity to local authorities when there is good reason to be concerned about possible misconduct, and follow these tips:
1. Create a nurturing space. Let children know they are safe with you and can talk freely. Encourage them to share and listen with care. If they disclose possible abuse trust them and assure him/her that telling you is the right thing.
2. Stay alert and monitor. Be mindful of the child’s expected whereabouts and activities while they are under your care.
3. Teach them that their body is theirs. Hopefully, parents would have already explained this, but they might now always make the message clear enough for a number of reasons. If there appears to be any confusion, explain to the child that no one has permission to touch them anywhere without their consent. Assure them that if someone tries to convince them otherwise, they should refuse and seek out the nearest trustworthy adult.
4. Be proactive and volunteer. Reach out to others in your local community.
5. Use your right to vote and raise awareness. Advocate for shared responsibility to stop child sexual abuse. Support legislation and organizations that fight child abuse. Ask city officials what they are doing to help protect your children.
References
https://www.rainn.org/statistics/children-and-teens
https://www.dshs.wa.gov/ca/child-safety-and-protection/child-abuse-prevention-tips
http://preventchildabuse.org/resource/preventing-child-sexual-abuse/
