Hello Friends,

I noticed many of you were abused sexually or have history of someone beloved in their family who suffered from sexual abuse. Hence, I am posting this thread hoping it will be helpful to those who need it and those who might use it as helpful tool to further protect the innocent ones!

Have great day!

~Ras~

Protecting Your Child from Sexual Abuse

Because the incidence of childhood sexual abuse is so prevalent, education and awareness of the facts and risks can help you to protect your family. Following are some tips to keep your children safe:

- Teach your child about touch. There is a difference between safe touch and touch that doesn't feel right. Make sure your toddler knows that no one should touch his private parts. Let your child know that he can say no to anybody who wants to touch him.

- Let your child show affection to friends and family members on his own terms. Don't make him kiss or hug someone.

- Let your child know early on that secrets are not okay. Most offenders try to trick children into thinking they can't tell anyone about what is happening because it is a secret. If your child knows that keeping secrets is not okay, he will know that something is wrong.

- Trust your child. Children don't lie about abuse. If your child tells you that someone touched him and it didn't feel right, believe him!

- Remember that most perpetrators are people that you or your children are familiar with. The statistics show that it is not strangers we have to be aware of, but people who our children are taught to trust.

- Teach your child the proper names of body parts. You can begin by using the words vagina and penis during diaper changes. Having the right words to use makes communication between parents and children easier.