kiwi_child

People cannot wrap kids up in cotton wool without causing psychological difficulties in them. But parents can do some positive things that will help minimise risk to their children.

1. Talk and listen to your child. Give them the benefit of the doubt. Kids don't usually lie about sexual abuse but some parents don't want to confront it.
2. Give them honest answers ( tempered to suit to their age and need to know)
3. Give them reassurance (There isn't a 'bogeyman' waiting to snap them up')
4. Teach them how to be safe: walk to school or play in the neighbourhood with at least 1 other friend.
5. Don't scare them but tell them if they feel scared or uncomfortable around somebody (and it's most likely somebody you know!), to tell you or their dad or other adults nearby.
6. If anyone tries to get them in a car or go with them etc, they should run away and if need be, scream kick bite etc, making as much noise as possible.
7. Get to know their friends, friends parents, teachers etc
8. Talk to local police or a counsellor if you have concerns.
9. If they notice someone hanging around or behaving suspiciously, tell them to tell an adult in charge etc

There are more strategies but these are the ones that come to mind at the moment. The thing is to find a balance. Kids need to feel reassured their world is secure and that what makes it secure is that most people are good and that good people speak up if they see someone (a very small minority) acting strangely/badly.And please don't put adults, by virtue of being adults, on some sort of pedestal that makes them superior. Politeness and good manners does NOT mean a child must be unquestionably obedient to all and sundry