Other Things You Can Do To Help Protect Your Child

1. KNOW your children's friends, families, caregivers, youth group leaders, teachers, any person spending time alone with your child.
2. TEACH your child names for their private parts, and that they have the right to say NO.
3. LISTEN when your child tells you he or she does not want to be with or go with someone else.
4. UNDERSTAND that no one should want to be with your child more than you. When someone is showing your child too much attention, ask yourself why. Listen to your intuition.
5. EXPLAIN to your child who a "someone" is, when you say to them, "Tell me if someone looks at or touches you on your private places."
6. USE the word "Surprise" instead of "Secret" with your children. Teach them to tell you when any adults ask them to keep a secret.
7. DO NOT put your child's first name on clothing or school books. This puts your child on a first name basis with anyone.
8. HAVE a code word, that only you and your child know, to be used in an emergency.
9. TELL your children that when away from home, if they feel scared or uncomfortable, they have the right to use the telephone without anyone's permission.
10. BELIEVE your children if they say they have been abused. Encourage them to ask questions if they are confused or not sure if something is okay or not.