Each day more than three children die as a result of abuse or neglect in the home. On average, a child abuse report is made every ten seconds—a total of approximately three million child abuse reports annually. We can all benefit from good tips in helping keep our children safer.
For Parents
- Never discipline your child when your anger is out of control.
- Participate in your child’s activities and get to know your child’s friends.
- Know what your child is doing online and on their electronic devices.
- Talk to your kids and teens about social media apps, safety while using them, who to be “friends” with, and what to do if there is a problem or someone acts inappropriately.
- Never leave your child unattended, especially in the car.
- Teach your child the difference between “safe touches” and “unsafe or unwanted touches”.
- Ask questions; for example, when your child tells you he or she does not want to be with someone, this could be a red flag.
- Listen to them and believe what they say. Be aware of changes in your child’s behavior or attitude, and inquire into it.
- Teach your child what to do if you and your child become separated while away from home.
- Teach your child the correct names of his/her private body parts.
- Be alert for any talk that reveals premature sexual understanding.
- Pay attention when someone shows greater than normal interest in your child.
- Make certain your child’s school or day care center will release him/her only to you or someone you officially designate.
For Kids & Teens
- No one has the right to abuse you
- You don’t deserve to be abused
- It’s not your fault that you’re being treated this way
- It’s wrong that you’re suffering this pain, fear or sadness
- You’re not alone. Other kids suffer abuse, too
- Sometimes abusers scare or threaten kids so they won’t tell
- There are people who care about you and want to help you
- If you’re being abused, please tell a safe person — that’s someone you can trust like a teacher, counselor, school nurse, neighbor or parent
Help Protect Yourself
- Don’t be alone with anyone who hurts you
- Listen to the little voice inside when it says that what’s being done to you isn’t right
- Find an adult you trust and tell them what’s happening.
- If they don’t believe you, keep telling until someone does believe you