- Encourage open communication with your children early in their development.
- Teach him/her to tell you about any physical contact initiated by an adult and to trust you with problems and emotions.
- Let the child know that they can talk to you about problems and concerns without you reacting and getting angry.
- Urge your children to tell you about anyone who hurts or scares them or makes them feel uncomfortable.
- Pay careful attention to persons around your children. Keep in mind that even ‘nice’ people, people you trust, can do mean, hurtful or wrong things.
- Trust your instincts. Refuse to leave your children in the company of those you do not trust, no matter who that person is.
- Include information about sexual assault when teaching your children about safety.
- Teach your children, as early as possible, to care for their own needs, such as bathing, dressing and using the toilet.
- Give your children permission to refuse to obey an older child or adult if they believe what is happening is wrong.
