Child Safety Tips
Every child is vulnerable to sexual abuse. Research indicates that one in three children will be a victim of sexual abuse before age 18. Ninety-five percent of children will be abused by someone they or their families know. Very young children as well as older teenagers may be victimized.
Today's parents/caregivers must face the very real possibility that someone may hurt or take advantage of their child. Teaching children personal safety skills is one of the best defenses against their being victimized. Another defense is giving children the message it is OK to speak to a trusted adult about ANY situation that makes them feel uncomfortable.
Key topics to cover are:
- The difference between safe and unsafe touches or secrets
- Proper names for children's body parts so they can communicate with you and others
- The difference between "safe" and "unsafe" adults -- Remember that strangers are not the only unsafe adults in a child's life
- It is OK to say "no" to any activity that feels uncomfortable
- Why their body belongs to them
- How to tell an adult when someone or something has happened to make them feel bad
- It is not their fault if they are sexually abused
When leaving a child with a caregiver, be sure to first ask the right questions:
- Does the facility and its staff and/or caretakers have a good reputation?
- Are the facility and staff safe for my child or children?
- Is the daycare or other social service agency licensed and accredited?
- Is the staff required to complete criminal background checks?
- Has the staff been trained in age-appropriate activities and care giving techniques?
- Is this a safe, child appropriate environment?
- Has the staff been trained to recognize child sexual abuse symptoms in children?
- How well do I know the people my child will be staying with?
- Does the facility have a policy where children are always in the company of two adults?
- Does the facility have a policy about helping your child use the restroom?
- Has the staff been trained in child safety skills?
And be very aware of your child's behavior...
- Does my child come home from the care providers happy and content or angry and withdrawn?
- Does my child willingly go to the care provider or does he or she act afraid?
- Has my child's behavior changed since the caretaker came into his/her life?