Prevent Abuse

How You Can Help Prevent Abuse

Know the Facts

Far too many children suffer child sexual abuse, and a lot of adults aren't aware or don't know how to help prevent it.

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Child Sexual Abuse Fact Sheet for Parents, Teachers and Other Caregivers

Facts About Abuse and How to Prevent It

What You Can Do Before a Child Is Harmed

Warning Signs of Possible Abuse

Signs an Adult Is At Risk to Harm a Child

Behaviors to Watch Out For When Adults Are With Children

Signs a Child Is At Risk to Harm Another Child

Let's Talk: Speaking Up to Prevent Child Sexual Abuse

Myths and Facts About Sex Offenders

Teach Kids Body Safety

Teach your children about the difference between good touch and bad touch.
Teach and use the proper names for body parts.
Set and respect family privacy boundaries.
Tell your child it's OK to say "no" to an adult.
Be aware of and set limits on your child's use of technology.
Let your children know you'll support them when they request privacy or say no to an activity or type of touch that makes them feel uncomfortable.
Encourage your children to confide in a "safe adult" (school counselor, grandparent, trusted family friend, etc.) if they feel they can't talk to you.

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The "Hot Chocolate Talk": Tips for Talking with Your Kids About Sexual Abuse

Talking to Kids About Preventing Abuse

Talking to Children and Teens

Create a Family Safety Plan

Ten Ways to Teach Your Children Skills to Prevent Sexual Abuse

Screen Caregivers

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Nine Questions Parents Need to Ask When Selecting a Program for Their Child

Promoting Sexual Safety in Youth Sports

Preventing Child Sexual Abuse in Youth Serving Organizations
55-page publication summarizes best practices. Produced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

North Carolina Sex Offender Registry

How to Start the Conversation

It’s normal to feel uneasy about broaching the topic of sexual abuse with your kids, but talking about it helps keep them safe. Watch this video to get four important tips on how to start the conversation and download the conversation guide for more helpful tips.