You can find ways to keep your child safe even though they are afraid of predators.For example, you want to look out for people that your child is not comfortable with, such as adults who would like to spend time alone with the child.If you do see a predator, you need to contact the authorities.By paying attention to who your child interacts with, you can keep them safe.Some child molesters are not adult.Don't accuse a person of being a child molester without being certain.
Step 1: Someone who pays attention to a child.
A predator makes a connection with a child.They will try to get to know them very well.In order to learn more about a child, a predator might ask questions such as "What is your favorite game to play?"Many people will ask this type of question if they are not a predator.It's normal for your friends and family to want to know more about your child.It's possible that a new teacher or babysitter would ask the same question.If they're not a part of your child's life, watch for someone who is intent on getting to know the child personally.If a stranger at the grocery store is trying to get to know your child, be careful.As much as possible, be present.
Step 2: Someone might ask a child to do an activity that involves being alone.
If someone tries to get your child alone, it could be a warning sign.They might try to get your child to do something.They could say, "Hey, Sam, I have new puppies at my house."Are you going to stop by to play with them?"That sounds great," you should say.I'll come as well.That's a red flag if they protest.A friend of your child's parent makes you nervous.You can say no if they offer to bring your child home after a school activity.I can leave early to pick up the kids.If someone without bad motives wants to interact with your child, they should not object to you or another adult also being present.If an adult asks your child to sleep at their house, it is a red flag.Come along as well if they do.Cut it off if they protest.
Step 3: If a person shares information with a child, pay attention.
They have little or no regard for social boundaries.Consider that a warning sign if your child says someone told them something personal.Private information should not be shared with kids.If someone tells your child about their sex life, be careful.
Step 4: You should be on the lookout for strange touching.
A child might be touched by a predator in your presence.The idea is to show the child that touching is okay.Kids have good instincts when they feel a person is off.If someone tries to hug them or puts an arm around them, watch to see if your child flinches or stiffens.If the child is not interested, a predator might insist on touching, kissing, or tickling your child.Don't force your child to be affectionate with someone they are not fond of.
Step 5: Someone buys things for children.
A predator will try to get your child's trust.Kids are susceptible to treats, so a predator might try to get their attention.If someone is buying your child candy without asking you first, notice.It's normal for people to want to give your child gifts.If someone you don't know gives your child a gift for no reason, be careful.It isn't their birthday or a holiday.
Step 6: Don't forget to pay attention to who your child interacts with.
There are people who try to approach a child online.Make sure you watch how your child uses their screen time.You should know who they are talking to in chat rooms and social media.Your child should be taught not to give out personal information such as their full name, address, phone number, and where they go to school.Common signs of grooming include asking your child to meet in person, sending inappropriate photos, and asking them to share pictures of themselves.
Step 7: Disregard common myths.
People assume that predator are strangers or that they look a certain way.You should know that predator are more likely to be someone you know.Someone could be a family member, friend, teacher, or coach.Take some time to get to know your child's friends.There is no typical child molester.Many predatory animals are friendly and outgoing.A predator can be married or single.They may or may not have children of their own.Male but not always a predator.A predator has not typical physical characteristics.They can be any race, ethnicity, or gender.They can be young adults or older.A predator is highly respected in the community.
Step 8: People who have unusual relationships with children should be watched out for.
A predator may have a special friend who is a child.The special friend varies from year to year.It could be a warning sign if an adult talks about this type of relationship.People who like to spend most of their time with kids show little interest in hanging out with other people.A predator might want to keep secrets from you.
Step 9: Talk about sex.
The predator might tell a dirty joke in front of the kids to see if they like it.Someone might say something like, "Look who's growing boobs!" if they talk about a child in sexual terms.
Step 10: Someone is trying to earn your trust.
A predator wants the parent to let their guard down.If someone is too eager to show how trustworthy they are, pay attention.Someone could mention how friendly they are several times.They could try to convince you that your child loves them.
Step 11: Listen to what your child tells you.
A child lying about sexual abuse is very rare.If your child tells you that someone made them uncomfortable, believe them.If they are talking about a family member or someone you know well, you should trust what they tell you.Children have better instincts than adults.They aren't as worried about being polite.If your child tells you someone gives them bad vibes, listen.
Step 12: Talk about bad situations in a casual tone.
You don't want to frighten your child when you talk about abuse.Keep your voice calm and friendly.Don't raise your voice.If you are upset, play it cool.If you don't seem upset or angry, your child will be more receptive to your words.
Step 13: Explain that it's not appropriate to touch someone.
Tell your child that parts of their body are private.They should be taught the proper terms for their body parts so that they can ask questions.Let your child know that touching their private parts is against the law.If they are receiving care, a trusted adult should be present.Tell your child that if someone asks to look at or touch their private parts they should tell a trusted adult as soon as possible.If someone asks you if they can see your vagina, you should say no.You can tell your teacher that someone made you uncomfortable by finding someone like me.Don't let your child see their own private parts."Other people don't want you to look at their penis."Go find a grown up if someone tries to do that.
Step 14: Setting boundaries is something your child should be taught about.
If someone makes your child uncomfortable, let them know it's okay to say no.You can tell them that it's okay to have boundaries when playing or when someone tries to touch you.If someone makes you scared or uncomfortable, find a grown up that you trust and tell them what happened.It's okay to ask questions.Don't worry, you're not going to get in trouble if you tell me that someone made you feel scared.If someone asks them to keep a secret from you, let them know."No!" they should say.I don't keep secrets from my parents."
Step 15: Look for the warning signs.
You might worry that your child has been harmed if they have been in contact with a predator.There are a lot of red flags.If your child is scared of physical contact, you should pay attention.
Step 16: It's time to reestablish safety.
Making the child feel safe is the first thing you need to do.Affirmatively say, "You're with me now, and I will take care of you."Don't worry, you're safe, follow the child's lead.If your child doesn't want to be alone in the dark, let them stay with you.Don't make them interact with people that they are afraid of.This could endanger them.
Step 17: The authorities can be contacted.
There are many ways to report child abuse.You may be required to report suspicions of child abuse.The State Law Database can be found on the RAINN website.You can reach out to the Childhelp National Abuse Hotline if you don't know what to do.An expert can show you how to make a report.All calls to the hotline are confidential.