Child Abuse Prevention

Strategies for Preventing Child Sexual Abuse

Those who victimize children are responsible for their actions, but, as caring and Safe Adults, there are steps we can each take to minimize risks and keep children safer.

  • Be prepared to report concerns or suspicions to Children’s Division or Law Enforcement. Contact Children’s Center if you have questions or need support to do this.
  • Seek information about activities in which children will be involved, including policies and procedures for supervision and safety. Ensure steps are taken to minimize isolated, one-on-one interactions.
  • Talk with adults who will be responsible for caring for or supervising children. Ask about screening, training, and monitoring of employees and volunteers.
  • Learn about and watch for “grooming” behavior in adults who interact with children.
  • Ensure that children and teens know the behavior you expect from them and the behavior you expect from adults and other youth – including those behaviors that would be concerning, inappropriate or dangerous.
  • Talk with children and teens about their bodies, boundaries, and sex. Encourage questions and conversation.
  • Teach children proper names for all of their body parts, including those that are “private”.
  • Empower youth to be the “boss” of their bodies. Allow them to choose how they greet or show affection to friends and family members. Do not force children to give hugs or kisses.
  • Discourage children from keeping secrets – teach the difference between “secrets” and “surprises”.
  • Respect privacy and personal space – encourage independence in toileting, dressing, and hygiene.
  • Monitor children and teen’s television, video, and internet usage/viewing. Exposure to violence or pornography can impact healthy development.

Other Resources

In addition to this site, you may find helpful information about child abuse prevention, recognition, response, and treatment on the following websites:

American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children

Child Welfare Information Gateway

Childhelp USA

How Do I Teach My Child About Personal Safety

Missouri Kids First – Ending Child Abuse Now

National Children’s Alliance

State Highway Patrol Sex Offenders Registration

Safe Cribs for Missouri

 

Pinwheel & Safe Adult Coloring Page

Safer Summer Camp Checklist

Safer Sleepovers Checklist

Body Safety Rules

Body Safety Messages

Adults Can Help Kids

Five Body Safety Rules (English)

Five Body Safety Rules (Spanish)