Quick Exit

Partial disclosure is a protective strategy. Children often share what feels manageable and hold back what feels too overwhelming, confusing, or shame-filled. This is especially true with sexual or online harm.

Avoid pressing for details. Let them know you believe what they’ve shared and that they don’t have to say everything at once. You can say, “Thank you for telling me what you could. We can take this one step at a time.” When children feel believed early, they’re more likely to share more later.