Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Tips

• Use age-appropriate language to teach children about their bodies.

• Name body parts accurately, including private parts (e.g., penis, vulva, buttocks, chest).

• Explain the difference between safe and unsafe touch.

• Let children know they have the right to say “no” to unwanted touch—even from family members.

• Reinforce that secrets should never be kept if they make them feel confused, scared, or uncomfortable.

• Private parts are the parts covered by a swimsuit.

• No one should touch their private parts or ask them to touch someone else's.

• It's okay to say “NO,” walk away, and tell a trusted adult.

• Help your child identify 3–5 trusted adults they can talk to about anything.

• Make sure at least one is outside the family (teacher, counselor, coach, etc.).

• Know the adults and older kids who spend time with your child.

• Monitor online interactions, gaming platforms, and social media activity.

• Sudden changes in behavior, regression, withdrawal, fear of certain people.

• Unexplained physical symptoms (e.g., pain, infections).

• Inappropriate knowledge or behavior for their age.

• Create an environment where children feel safe asking questions or sharing concerns.

• Avoid shame or punishment when a child expresses discomfort.

• If a child discloses abuse, stay calm, listen carefully, and affirm that you believe them.

• Get professional help immediately—never confront the abuser yourself.

• Learn about grooming tactics and how abusers build trust.

• Share prevention tools with family, friends, and community members.

• Show children what healthy, respectful boundaries look like in all relationships.

• Apologize when you cross their boundaries to teach mutual respect.