If my family needs direct help, how does KidSafeHQ support that?
When direct services are needed, KidSafeHQ helps families connect with local, trusted community partners that provide crisis intervention, counseling, advocacy, medical accompaniment, or legal guidance. These partners are carefully vetted so families are not left searching blindly during stressful moments. The goal is to reduce confusion, shorten the path to help, and ensure families land […]
Can sexual assault happen between friends or partners?
Yes. Relationship status does not equal consent. Assault can occur in any relationship.
What is the statute of limitations for reporting sexual assault?
In Connecticut, the time limits for reporting sexual assault depend on the age of the victim at the time of the assault and the type of offense. Importantly, Connecticut has expanded these laws significantly in recent years to give survivors more time. Here is how it works: If the survivor was a minor (under 18) […]
What is grooming, and how does it happen online?
Grooming involves building trust, normalizing sexual behavior, and gradually increasing secrecy or pressure. Online grooming often looks friendly at first.
What are the warning signs that someone online may be unsafe for my child?
Requests for secrecy, rapid emotional closeness, sexual content, gifts, or moving conversations to private platforms are red flags.
What should my child do if someone screenshots their messages?
Save evidence and tell a trusted adult. Screenshots remove privacy and control and should be taken seriously.
Can messages or photos be shared without my child’s permission?
Yes, and this is why sharing sexual content is risky. Consent to send does not equal consent to share.
What should I do if someone threatens to share my child’s photos?
This is sextortion. Preserve evidence and seek immediate support. Silence increases risk.
At what age should my child be allowed to use social media?
There is no single right age. Readiness depends on maturity, supervision, and support. Start later, go slowly, and revisit often.
Can consent laws apply differently online?
Yes. Consent laws often apply differently online, especially when images, videos, or digital communication are involved — and this is an area where many parents are understandably confused. In Connecticut and across the U.S., the law treats online sexual activity involving images very differently from in-person sexual behavior, particularly when minors are involved. Here are […]