OTHER WAYS TO PREVENT CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE

What else can YOU do?

1. Be a SAFE parent for your child to talk to if there are concerns for possible child sexual abuse. Talk to your child about their day and how they are doing, so that they know they can come to you and talk about other things.

2. Identify who can help your child in the bathroom with toileting or bathing. If your child tells you about something that made them feel uncomfortable, address it right away. Please discuss this with your child's doctor.

3. Be mindful of people who might pay special attention to your child, may want to spend extra time with your child, or always offering to watch your child.

4. Do not force your child to hug or kiss grown-ups (for example, relatives that they might not have seen for a while).

5. Monitor your child's electronics - tablets, computer and cell phones - for inappropriate use. Review tips for online safety and be sure to talk to your children and supervise their access frequently and randomly.

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NORMAL SEXUAL DEVELOPMENT & BEHAVIOR

It is normal for children to be curious about their bodies and other people's bodies. This includes:

why private parts might look different
masturbation in preschoolers
using words about body parts or using the bathroom

Normal behavior between children should NOT include:

age difference of more than four years
any force or coercion
developmental differences
behavior that looks like adult sexual activity

Sexual behavior that is concerning should be discussed with your child's doctor or healthcare provider.