ing more time in organized activities and settings, whether sports, clubs, daycare or religious activities, etc. T e majority of the time children are safe in such organized set- tings. However, it’s important to be aware that individuals who abuse kids sexually can be educated, hold positions of authority and respect, and be married with children. Pay attention if an adult wants to spend a lot of time alone with your child. Most impor- tant, educate your children. From an
early age, kids should understand the con- cept of private parts, that no one should ever touch, kiss or interfere with them, and that they, in turn, should never touch anyone’s private parts. Teach your children the proper names for their body parts to help ensure that if ever touched inappropriately, they have the vocabulary to make what occurred clear to an adult. T ey should tell you or another trusted adult such as a nurse, a teacher or a police offi cer. Keep the channels of communication open, but never harass your child with repeated questions regarding sexual abuse — it can result in closing off communication altogether. Most kids who are sexually abused
have no physical signs of trauma. If you are concerned about possible inappropriate
Ready, Set, Grow
touching, you should not examine your child’s genitals. A health care provider should examine your child, and possibly, test for sexually transmitted infections. Educate older kids, especially teens, about potentially high-risk situations for unwanted touching. Gatherings involving the use of alcohol and other drugs can place them at risk. Using drugs and al- cohol decreases their awareness of danger and their ability to protect themselves. Investigate any
Providing a loving environment and believing and supporting your child are essential for healing
concern you may have about possible sexual abuse. If
your child discloses inappropriate touching, report it to child protective services immediately. Not every child who is touched inap-
propriately will need ongoing mental health counseling, but a skilled therapist can make the assessment. Your health care provider or child protective services can assist you in fi nding the most appropriate resources for counseling, if needed. Also, remember that providing a loving
environment and believing and supporting your child are essential for healing.
Gail Hornor, MS, CPNP, works at the Center for Family Safety and Healing, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH.
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