What can I do to prevent child abuse?

•  Know the Signs

Educate yourself about the signs and symptoms of abuse, what constitutes abuse and who is likely to abuse your child.   Realities—not trust—should influence your decisions regarding your child.

•  Speak to the Child
Children are often scared to tell of the abuse. Good communication may reduce a child's vulnerability to sexual abuse and increase the likelihood that the child will tell you if abuse has occurred.

•  Stay Alert
Don't expect overt signs when a child is being sexually abused. Take note of new and irregular emotional and behavioral patterns, as they may be clues about underlying distress . Abusers often become very friendly with potential victims and their families in order to gain trust and access to the child. Do not allow your child to be alone with an adult and you will significantly lower the risk of abuse.

•  Be Prepared
Learn where to go, who to call and how to react.  Adult reactions are very influential to vulnerable children so adults should be prepared to react calmly and supportively for the maximum benefit of the child.

• Act on Suspicions
Very few reports are false and perpetrators tend to have multiple victims so by making a report, numerous other

children may also be saved. Remember, the future well

being of a child is at stake.

•  Offer Community Support
Child abuse effects our entire community. Volunteer your

time and financially support organizations that fight to

eliminate child abuse.

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