Child sexual abuse. What parents need to know.

1. Talking to your child before an assault happens is the best prevention: • Children are best protected by giving them the knowledge and skills necessary for their safety. • Let your child know that safety rules apply to all adults including family members. • Encourage your child to tell someone about secrets that are making her/him feel bad. • Let your child know that you are available to talk and listen; allow your child to share thoughts and listen closely to what they are telling you. • Help your child understand who they can trust. Talk with your child about this and listen to their input. • Tell your child that if someone touches her/him to tell and keep telling until someone listens. • Instilling a sense of strong self-esteem in your child may help your child avoid feelings of responsibility and guilt if they are victimized. • Open sexual communication at home can make it easier for children to disclose sexual abuse by minimizing discomfort. • A child is never to blame for the abuse; children cannot prevent abuse, only the offender can.