prevention

Education and open communication are the best ways to prevent sexual abuse.

Discuss sexuality with your children in an open and honest way.

Speak openly. Let your child know that he or she can speak openly with you. Tell the child that he or she does not need to keep a secret if someone does something to him or her that is confusing or uncomfortable.

Listen carefully to your child. HE or she may not talk about a problem directly, but may give a verbal clue that something is wrong.

Teach your child what to do if approached or abused:

? Get away from a stranger who tries to lure him with offers of gifts, a ride, etc.

? Say no to anyone who tries to sexually abuse her.

? Run for help is someone tries to abuse him.

? Tell an adult what happened as soon as possible.

? Realize he is not guilty if abused. It is not his fault.