Talk to your child about his or her experiences in YMCA programs, school, sports, and other activities.
Drop in on your child’s programs.
Trust your instincts. Don’t wait to tell us if something seems “strange.” Speak up!
Watch for warning signs of abuse:
• Unexplained bruising or other physical markings
• Disturbed sleeping or eating patterns
• Sudden change or attitude towards regular scheduled activity.
• Abrupt changes in behavior-anxiety, clinging, aggressiveness, withdrawal, depression
• Fear of certain person or place
• Discomfort with physical contact
• A child who abuses other children
Listen and watch for signs of your child receiving special attention that other children or teens are not receiving, including favors, treats, gifts, rides, increasing affection or time alone, particularly outside the activities of school, child care, or other activities.
On a regular basis, ask your child these questions:
• Is anyone scaring or threatening you?
• Is anyone asking you to keep secrets?
• Has anyone said anything to you that made you feel bad?
• Is anyone touching you in a way that you don’t like?
Encourage your child to tell you or another trusted adult if anything happens to him or her.