False complaints from children about sexual abuse are rare. If a child tells you about any form of sexual abuse, whether or not it involves touching, treat them with compassion and respect
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Believe the child -- children rarely lie about sexual abuse.
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Assure the child that you will protect him or her.
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Commend them for telling you about the experience.
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Support the child. Assure them that they are NOT at fault or in any way responsible for the incident. Helping the child to remove self-blame is extremely important.
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Control your own reactions. Your acceptance is important to the child who sought you out.
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Report the suspected abuse to the police or a social service agency before going to the school or program where your child says something happened to confront them with your concerns.
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Find a specialized agency that can assist you and evaluate sexual abuse victims, such as the Department of Child Services, a hospital, community mental health program or sexual abuse treatment center.
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If you seek medical attention, look for a physician with experience and training in detecting and recognizing sexual abuse. Children's hospitals and community sexual abuse treatment programs may provide referrals.
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Talk with other parents to ascertain if their children have exhibited behavior changes or physical symptoms.
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Take action! It is important because other children may be or will continue to be at risk if nothing is done.
