We often falsely believe that if a child is being abused, they will tell us right away or that as parents and caregivers, we would know if our child is being abused. Unfortunately, only a small percentage of children will disclose abuse immediately. There are so many reasons why children are unable to tell us what is happening. If a child is unable to tell there is always a good reason.

​

It is on us as parents, caregivers, and protectors to recognize the signs and symptoms of grooming and sexual abuse.  To keep children safe, we need to have regular age-appropriate conversations with children.

 

Those conversations should include:

1. Conversations about their body autonomy

 

2. Consent

 

3. Difference between a secret and a surprise

 

4. Sexuality

 

5. Boundaries

​

To help facilitate conversations we provide a few guidelines that might be helpful. If any of the conversations lead to a disclosure of abuse.