As the 'trusted adult' in your child's life you can continue working with them on the following areas:
Your child needs to know that he/she is so special and important to you that you want no one to
hurt him/her.
Your child should never be forced to kiss or accept touches from anyone.
Your child should know the correct terms for his/her body part and consider them 'the private zone'.
A family 'code word' can give you and your child confidence and keep him/her safe. Tell your child
that he/she is not to give out family code word.
Teach your child that 'bad touches' are problems grown- ups will take care of : Reinforce tell a
'trusted adult' should anyone try to harm them.
Design role plays using situations that might be tempting or confusing to help him/her decide the
best protective action. (example-puppy in park) (example- touching private parts by anyone)
Molestation (a violent crime upon a child) is almost never one of violence but one of coercion.
Teach you child to say "NO" or "STOP ". It empowers him/her to assert his/her boundaries and can
protect them.
Your child should learn his/her address and phone number. (Don't forget about area codes.)
Teach you child to say '"BACK OFF - STRANGER'". That will alert others in the area that the
person bothering your child is not known to him/her.
Monitor your child's computer use. Make sure the areas they are going into are safe for children. If
they use chat programs learn who they are communicating with.
A personal note: If someone appears interested in your child - or too good to be true - they
probably are. Remember child predators are good at coercion.
For more information on preventing child abuse: