What if a teacher or coach makes inappropriate comments to my child?
Comments that are sexual, suggestive, humiliating, or make a child feel uncomfortable are not okay, regardless of who is saying them. Adults in positions of authority have a responsibility to maintain clear professional boundaries. If something feels wrong, it is important to trust that feeling and tell a trusted adult, school administrator, counselor, or caregiver. […]
What if the person my child needs to report is a family member?
When the unsafe person is a family member, kids may feel confused or scared, but it’s still important that they tell a trusted adult. If your child isn’t sure who to tell, help them identify another trusted family member or a trusted adult outside the family, like a school staff member or a friend’s parent.
What if my child gets in trouble after they report something?
Sometimes an adult responds the wrong way and punishes a child even though the child was trying to get help. That isn’t okay. If that happens, your child may need to tell a different trusted adult, even if that feels hard.
My child waited a long time to tell me. Does it still matter?
Yes. No matter how long ago something happened, it still matters, and your child can still tell a trusted adult.
Can my child report something anonymously?
In many settings, yes, children may be able to report concerns anonymously. Some schools, hotlines, and online reporting tools allow anonymous reports, and in some cases it is also possible to report anonymously to the police. Anonymous reporting can be a helpful first step for children who want help but are afraid to be identified. […]
What if my child reports something and regrets it later?
Mixed emotions after disclosure are normal. Regret does not mean reporting was a mistake. Children can feel relief and fear at the same time. Reassure them that they still have choices about what happens next and that support does not disappear once they speak up.
How do I teach my child that they can say no even if they said yes before?
Your child is always allowed to change their mind and decide they no longer want to do something. Saying yes once does not mean they have to keep saying yes. This is one of the most important concepts for children and teens to understand. Consent is not a contract. It is an ongoing choice that […]
Can my child say no to hugs or physical affection from family members?
“Yes. Everyone has the right to decide what kinds of physical touch feel okay for them, including with family members or people they love. Being related does not override a child’s right to bodily autonomy. Saying no to a hug or other physical touch is allowed and does not mean your child is being rude […]
Is it okay for my child to say no even if they said yes before?
Your child is always allowed to change their mind and decide they no longer want to do something. Saying yes once does not mean they have to keep saying yes. This is one of the most important concepts for children and teens to understand. Consent is not a contract. It is an ongoing choice that […]
How should I explain consent to my child?
Consent means freely choosing to say yes or no. It must be clear and given without pressure, fear, manipulation, obligation, or an imbalance of power. Consent is not silence, freezing, or going along to avoid conflict. Those are signs that someone may not feel safe or comfortable. Consent can change at any time, and anyone […]