Letter: Training, education can prevent child sex abuse

From: Lisa Teague and Raina Jones, Family Service, Inc. of Bartholomew County

Columbus

One in 10 children is sexually abused before their 18th birthday. About 90% of such children know their abuser. About 30% are abused by a family member and 10% are abused by a stranger, according to research at From Darkness to Light.

We can prevent child sexual abuse in Bartholomew County. Darkness to Light’s Stewards of Children training has three empowerment skills that can help us prevent child sexual abuse:

Make choices that protect children — Limit one-on-one situations between adults and children and older children with younger children.

Take risks to minimize danger to our children — When an adult or older child is pushing a boundary with a child, let the adult or older child know that they are pushing the boundary and need to stop.

Support each other — Support parents and caregivers when they make choices for their child’s safety. If a parent or caregiver needs to make a report to the Department of Child Services, be supportive. Educate yourself about child sexual abuse and prevention.

Darkness to Light’s Stewards of Children teaches information and skills that empower adults to prevent child sexual abuse before it happens, signs and symptoms to look for, and provides techniques on what to do if a child discloses sexual abuse.

We read the in newspaper or hear on the radio about a child being sexually abused and think, “wow, someone should do something.” That someone is you.

Please contact Family Service Inc. at 812-314-2325 or email: [email protected] or [email protected] to sign up for the next Darkness to Light training, Jan. 31 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Family Service Inc. conference room, 1531 13th St., Suite 2540, Columbus.

If you suspect a child is neglected, physically, emotionally, or sexually abused, call the Department of Child Services at 800-800-5556.