Disclosures

What to do if your child tells you he or she has been sexually abused:

  1. Believe your child. Children rarely lie about sexual abuse
  2. Listen carefully and calmly. Be supportive of your child for telling you about the experience
  3. Gently encourage the child to tell you more
  4. Let the child know that:
    1. He/she did the right thing in telling you
    2. You believe him/her
    3. He/she did nothing wrong
    4. You are sorry about what happened
    5. You will do the best to protect him/her
    6. love him/her very much
    7. He/she can come and talk to you any time
  5. Call 1-800-452-1999 or your local law enforcement agency for further advice and direction

Tips To Parents

  1. Teach your child that NO ONE has the right to touch them in a way that makes the feel uncomfortable
  2. Teach your child proper names of body parts to further assist in educational development an to avoid confusion should an incident need to be reported
  3. Instruct your child to ALWAYS tell you when anyone asks them to keep a secret
  4. Listen to your child. Never ignore any concerns or fear your child may express to you
  5. Assure your child that you will help them with any problems they may have

If, in exploring this troubling issues, you find yourself facing difficult memories of sexual abuse you experienced as a child, it may be too painful for you to discuss these prevention concepts with you children. A therapist could help you resolve buried feeling- not only for your own well-being, but for that of your child. Consult our directory page for more information about clinical services.

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