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Want to protect your family from sexual abuse?
Millions of families are affected by sexual abuse each year. The statistics are terrifying. But what's even worse…
Most families don't know how to properly protect their loved ones until it's too late.
The better news?
Implementing prevention measures can drastically reduce your family's chances of falling victim to sexual abuse.
You'll learn:
Sexual abuse happens more often than you think
How to teach kids about body safety
Behavior that could indicate sexual abuse
How to prevent sexual abuse from happening at home
How to keep your kids safe online
Sexual Abuse Happens More Often Than You Think
First things first: sexual abuse isn't something that happens to other families.
Child sexual abuse affects 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 20 boys in America according to the CDC. These are just the reported cases.
Here's the thing…
Sexual abuse is rarely committed by strangers. Statistics show that 93% of juvenile victims knew their perpetrator. Family members, coaches, teachers, babysitters – these trusted adults are most likely to harm your children.
Families who find themselves working with Chicago sexual abuse attorneys realize this statistic too late. The perpetrator was likely someone they knew and trusted.
That's just awful.
But it's the truth. And knowledge is power.
Teach Kids About Body Safety
Communication is vital to sexual abuse prevention.
If your kids feel comfortable coming to you about anything, they will let you know if something isn't right. But most kids don't grow up with this kind of freedom when it comes to uncomfortable topics.
Tips for teaching kids about body safety:
Teach your children the correct names of body parts from a young age
Explain to children that some touches are safe and others are not
Tell your kids that it's never ok for someone to keep a secret about touching
Let your children know that they will never get in trouble for telling you the truth
Roleplay scenarios so kids know exactly what to say if something happens
Have these conversations often. Don't wait for the big talk to protect your kids from sexual abuse. Make sure your kids are comfortable talking to you about their bodies.
The more freedom they have to approach the subject, the more likely they are to tell you if something doesn't feel right.
Behavior That Could Indicate Sexual Abuse
If you suspect your child is being abused, it's crucial to act quickly.
Continued abuse can cause a lifetime of damage. But how can you tell if something's wrong?
Here are some signs to look out for:
Changes in behavior
Avoidance of certain places or people
Knowledge of sex that is inappropriate for their age
Physical symptoms (pain, bruising, bleeding)
Suddenly younger behavior (acting toddler-like, bed-wetting)
Shutting you and others out
Don't forget to look for signs in adults too.
If there's an adult in your child's life that makes you feel weird – there's probably a reason. If they're consistently wanting to be alone with your child or offering extravagant gifts, keep your eye on them.
Trust your gut feeling. If you think something is off, look closer.
How To Prevent Sexual Abuse From Happening At Home
All predators need access to their victims.
One of the best ways you can protect your family from sexual abuse is by creating a safe home environment. Sexual abuse often occurs when the predator can be alone with their victim.
Rules you should enforce in your household:
Never allow your children to be alone with another adult in a private setting. Period. If you're not in the room, someone else shouldn't be with your child either.
Practice openness in your home. If another adult is with your child, doors should stay open. Everyone is welcome to use the bathroom privately. But beyond that, there is no reason for adults and children to be alone together.
Background check everyone who comes into contact with your children. Whether it's a coach, tutor, or babysitter. Background checks are there for a reason.
One more thing…
Create a family code word.
This word is used whenever a child feels uncomfortable and needs immediate help from a parent. Practice using the family code word so everyone knows how and when to use it.
Rules like these may seem extreme. But they remove predators' access to your children.
How To Keep Your Kids Safe Online
Online predators are a real threat.
The internet has allowed predators to hide behind a screen while they groom children. Once your child trusts them, they will use manipulative tactics to try and meet in person.
Things you can do to protect your family online:
Don't allow children to have internet devices in their bedrooms
You should always be able to see the screen if your child has a device
Check their social media friends regularly
Use parental controls on all devices
The top websites predators use are social media platforms and gaming websites. Know what your child is doing on their devices. Know who they're talking to online.
Teaching Body Autonomy And Boundaries To Kids
Teach kids that their body is their own.
Body autonomy is the understanding that a person has jurisdiction over their own body. You should teach your kids about body autonomy starting at a young age.
Tips to teach kids about body autonomy:
Allow your kids to say no to hugs and kisses from family members. If you force your child to be affectionate when they don't want to, they'll learn that their boundaries don't matter.
Give your kids privacy. Knock on their door before entering. Children learn boundaries by example.
Allow your kids to trust their instincts. If someone is making them uncomfortable, they can say no and remove themselves from the situation.
Children with strong body autonomy are much less likely to be victimized.
Wrapping Up
The best way to protect your family from sexual abuse is by taking action TODAY.
Don't wait for something to happen to start teaching your kids about body safety. Don't wait until you think your child is being abused to start looking for signs.
Take action now by doing the following:
Teaching your children about body safety and body autonomy
Looking for behavioral changes that may indicate sexual abuse
Creating rules that prevent anyone from being alone with your children
Researching everyone that comes into contact with your children
Be proactive and ensure your family is safe from sexual abuse.
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