sexual abuse - prevention

To prevent my two children from suffering the same fate as I did, I started age-appropriate education early on. Based on my experiences, I would like to offer you some advice to help protect your children from sexual violence. The responsibility to empower children in this sensitive area and to provide them with sexual education lies solely with the adults.

Children should be made aware of sexual abuse and sexual exploitation as early as possible. This is the best prevention against sexual advances and assaults.

•  Be Informed: Those who are well-informed are better protected against abuse.
• My Body Belongs to Me: No one has the right to control or use my body. These important messages must be passed on to children. Children should be given the opportunity to talk about love, affection, and sexuality.
• Answer Questions Openly: When children ask questions like, “Why are boys different?” or “Why does this girl have such a big belly?”, respond with openness and honesty.
• Touches: Children should learn to distinguish between good and uncomfortable or strange touches.
• Saying No: Boys and girls are allowed—and even must—say no to adults’ demands in certain situations. They can defend themselves and don’t have to obey if they find themselves in threatening or confusing situations. Children should be cautious when dealing with strangers.
• Secrets: Children need to learn to evaluate secrets properly. If secrets feel scary or strange, it is advisable to seek help from trusted adults.

The most effective measure is always prevention. Prevention against abuse strengthens children and adolescents and promotes their independence. It must enable children to recognize and understand sexual assaults. Educating, informing, and building children’s self-confidence through responsible adults is of great importance. Preventive measures must never instill fear in children, because fear creates weakness. Fear paralyzes and causes inner unrest. Fear arises from feelings of helplessness. It blocks healthy thinking and leads to guilt and self-hatred, as I experienced myself.