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How to Keep Your Kids Safe From Sexual Abuse

Ignorance is not bliss.

You tell your kids how to stay safe while crossing streets or riding their bikes-- don't think that ignoring the subject of sexual abuse will keep them safe. Boys and girls alike are abused at a staggering rate. It is not the boogeyman victimizing them, it's scout leaders, teachers, grandfathers, aunts, neighbors and quite often it's other children who have themselves been abused. Educate yourself so you can help protect them. If you never talk about it they will have no idea of what to do if someone tries to harm them, and they may get the idea that it's not safe to tell you.

I'm a survivor of child sexual abuse, and I can tell you firsthand that it doesn't matter what else in your childhood is happy or magical if you have to live through that torture. Knowledge is power!

This little web site is my favorite for educating parents on the subject.

Also remember that abusers target children who are often alone, unhappy or feel unloved and crave adult atttention and affection. You are a powerful tool in keeping your kids safe just by being there. Also, just as burglars stay away from houses with dogs because of the noise and bothers, abusers are more likely to stay away from children who would be "trouble." Teach your kids it's okay to disobey adults in some situations, to make noise, and to follow their instincts about people.

Yes, sexual abuse is an unpleasant and scary thought, especially for parents. But it's like a room full of broken glass. If you and your child go in there and turn out the lights and close your eyes, your child could get hurt. If you hold your child, turn on the lights, open your eyes and show him how to avoid the glass there is a much better chance that he will stay safe. If he is cut, it will likely be a smaller cut and you can help minimize it. The last thing you want to do is leave him alone in the room and pretend there's nothing there.

Knowledge is power!

Copyright © Alicia Bayer. Alicia is a poet and full-time mama to Victoria (3 years old) and Annalee (one and a half). This article originally appeared in her newsletter, A Magical Childhood, which offers crafts, site recommendations, articles and ways to the make the day special. To subscribe or see more of her articles, visit her web site. Reprinted with permission.

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