Preventing Abuse

These are some important steps you can take to protect your children from abuse:

Talk to your children about sexual abuse, being sensitive to their age level and understanding.
Teach children that they have private areas on their bodies (the parts that are covered by a swimsuit) that no one may touch.
Explain to children that they do not have to do everything an adult tells them to do, especially if something makes them uncomfortable.
Teach children not to accept gifts from acquaintances or strangers and to tell a trusted adult if someone has offered a gift.
Work with your children to make some basic “safety rules” they should follow. For example, teach them never to go with or get in a car with a stranger.
Teach children how to say “no” and how to get away from dangerous situations.
Create open communication with children at an early age. Encourage your children to come to you with their problems.

Make sure your children know their full name, address, and phone number. Teach them how to make emergency calls by dialing “911” or “O”.
Set rules for using the internet. Teach children that they must not meet anyone they meet on the web in person.
Choose babysitters carefully, taking suggestions from trusted friends and checking references.
If you are afraid you may hurt your children, seek help from a family doctor, counselor, or clergy member.