In order to remind adults of the power and responsibility they have to keep children safe and protected each and every day, the following nine rules were created.
- Help children feel safe by identifying five people who care about them and who they can trust in a time of need – one for each finger on their hand.
- Believe children when they say they’re hurt, and say, “It’s not your fault.”
- Explain the difference between a secret (bad) and a surprise (good).
- Teach children the correct name of their private parts.
- Talk to kids about safe and unsafe touches.
- If you suspect abuse, you can say, “I care about you. You seem really afraid and sad.” Or, “Is anything bothering you?”
- Frequently tell and show children in your life that you care about them.
- If you have a reasonable suspicion that abuse is happening, you are required to report it to law enforcement.
- If a child comes to you for help, remain calm, listen and provide the support needed.
Download and print the nine rules as a reference.
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