Safety Rules Concerning Child Abuse

Education can help protect children from sexual abuse!

All children should know:

No one has a right to touch them-

Explain to your child that nobody (including a parent or another relative) should touch him or her in a way that makes them feel uncomfortable, nervous or confused. Explain to your child that private areas of the body are covered by a bathing suit or underwear, and no one should touch or see those areas.

The difference between a safe touch and an unsafe touch-

For example, a safe touch could be a pat on the back or a high five. An unsafe touch could be fondling or touching in any way that feels uncomfortable (such as being forced to sit on someone's lap or hug or kiss someone). Any touch that he or she is told is “secret” is unsafe, and the child should tell a parent or teacher about the unsafe touch.

That it's always okay to say no-

Tell your child to say no if someone tries to touch them or makes them feel uncomfortable.

What to do if someone makes them uncomfortable or afraid-

1. say no

2. walk away

3. yell for help

4. tell someone

Teach your child how to call 911.

That they'll be believed-

It important to create a strong trusting relationship. Your child needs to know that you will always believe him/her, no matter what.

Do not keep “secrets”-

Tell your child that there is no secret he or she can't tell you, even if someone -- including an adult -- said not to tell. Reassure your child that you will always love them no matter what.

Rules for getting parent’s permission to go anywhere with another adult-

Make sure your child always tells you:

1. where he or she will be

2. who he or she will be with (be sure to check with other parents to make sure there is adult supervision)

3. When he or she will be home (offer for a ride if your child needs one.)

Your child should never go anywhere with another adult or child without asking you first.

To tell a trusted adult if someone tries to hurt them-

Children should know that it is important to tell a:

1. parent or relative

2. teacher

3. healthcare provider

4. religious leader

5. police officer

They should keep telling until someone helps them.

Their full name, address and phone number-

Help your child memorize this information. It's best not to have your child wear clothing or carry items with his or her name on them. This can invite attention from people looking for ways to start a conversation with your child.

Rules for talking to people they don't know well-

Teach your child not to talk to people he or she does not know well when you are not there.

To never agree to meet with someone they don't know well-

This is especially important when dealing with the Internet.

Safety rules went home alone*-

Teacher child to:

1. Never open the door when home alone.

2. Avoid letting people know that he or she is home alone when answering the phone. Teach your child to say, “My parent can't come to the phone right now“ rather than “My parent is not home now.”

*Do not leave a child home alone unless he or she is old enough to easily understand and follow your instructions.

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