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From Staff Reports
It’s something no parent wants to think about, yet the statistics demand attention.
One in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually abused by the time they are 18 years old, according to a study conducted by the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network.
Parents are encouraged not to turn a blind eye to the numbers. Instead, PinnacleHealth Children’s Resource Center encourages parents to educate themselves and their children about the dangers and ways to prevent abuse.
The CRC offers training and outreach prevention programs that are designed to expand and enhance the knowledge and skills of professionals working with children and families, through a Protecting Your Child from Sexual Abuse class.
“When you empower your child to say ‘no’ to an unwanted touch and teach them that they can come to you with questions and concerns, you take critical steps to preventing child sexual abuse,” says Teresa M. Smith, Ph.D., executive director of the Children’s Resource Center.
For more information about the class or CRC’s training opportunities for professionals, community groups or for parents, contact Shannon Cossaboom at 717-782-4693.
The Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network and PinnacleHealth Children’s Resource Center suggest the following tips for keeping your child safe:
Talk to your child about sexual abuse and sexuality in age appropriate terms. Having open and honest conversations with your child lets them know its OK to ask if they have questions or concerns.
Be involved in your child’s life. Take an interest in your child’s activities and know who they are hanging out with and having conversations with. Know who other trusted adults are in your child’s life, as sometimes children do not feel comfortable talking with their parents about all things.
Be available. Make time to spend with your child and let them know its OK to talk to you if something or someone is making them feel uncomfortable. Then make sure to follow up.
