Although it can be difficult at times, especially for working parents and parents of adolescents, good communication within your family is an important key to keep them safe from abuse. Create an atmosphere where your kids are not afraid to confide in you.
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Listen to your kids and talk with them every day. Encourage them to share their concerns.
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Be alert for any changes in personality, attitude, behavior, or physical problems--learn about your children's activities and feelings so that changes will be more apparent to you.
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Caution your child about strangers and discuss with them whom they can trust.
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Teach your child at an early age that it is alright to say "no" to any adult in certain situations and to tell someone about the incident--and to keep telling until someone helps them. An unprepared child may be too confused or ashamed to admit that abuse has taken place, especially sexual abuse.
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Teach your child which touches are good and which touches are bad. Explain that they have the right to say "no" to anyone who might try to touch them, and that if they are confused if it is a good touch or a bad touch, they should tell someone.
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Tell your children that someone they know and trust or love (such as a relative, family friend, babysitter, teacher or neighbor) might try to touch them inappropriately, or get them to do something they don't want to do, or be abusive toward them. Explain that most people do not do these things and they should tell you if it happens.
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Explain to your child that some people may try to hurt them and tell them that what they are doing is a secret. Some people even threaten the child by saying their parents will be hurt if the child tells the secret. Tell your child that anyone who does this is wrong.
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Make sure your child knows you want to be told about someone who does something hurtful or confusing to them, like touching them, giving them gifts or asking to take a picture of your child. Reassure your child that they have done anything wrong and won't be blamed for whatever an adult does to them.
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Words that help:
~ I love you.
~ You're very special to me.
~ I'm so lucky to have you.
~ You're a great kid!
~ Good job!
~ You can do it!
~ I believe in you!
~ Thank you for being patient while I had to.....
~ Tell me about your day.
~ Let's talk about what's upsetting you.
~ I'm sorry.
