What if a child tells you about abuse?
There may be times when children or adolescents tell you, directly or indirectly, about abuse in their family. Remember how very difficult it is for children to talk about their abuse, especially as they may think it will get them into trouble. It is very important for you to handle their disclosure with sensitivity.
In talking with a child
it will be helpful if you:
Provide a private time and place to talk
Do not promise not to tell
Do not express shock or criticize their family
Reassure them that they have done the right thing by telling
Use their vocabulary to discuss body parts
Tell them that the abuse is not their fault, that they are not bad or to blame
Determine their immediate need for safety
Tell them that you are required by law to report the abuse
Let them know what will happen when you report
Report the abuse to Department of Human Services or a Law Enforcement Department in the county in which the child resides.
