Child Abuse Prevention: Respond
THREE KEY HABITS in the Prevention of Child Abuse: Know, See, & Respond
RESPOND and take action in response to behaviors recognized as being inappropriate or questionable. If you see warning signs from your child or you hear about something that sounds like abuse, report it immediately. If your child tells you about sexual abuse or inappropriate behavior, your response plays a big role in how your child understands abuse and how they recover.
1. Stay calm
2. Comfort your child
3. Listen carefully
4. Ask for examples
5. Do not threaten or criticize the person your child is accusing
Reporting Concerns or Rule Violations
Child predators break rules to gain privacy, access, and a relationship with children. People who do not follow child safety rules put all children at risk.
What are 'Red Flag Behaviors'?
Violations of Code of Conduct
Allowing children to sit on their lap
Tickling, wrestling, or touching that seems odd
Giving participants gifts
Being one-to-one with a child where they are not visible and interruptible by others
Violations of rules/boundaries in general with children
Neglecting or leaving children unsupervised
Touching participants in their bathing suit area
Contacting minors via phone, online, or in person outside of the Y
Accessing or referencing child pornography
Taking pictures of minors on their personal devices
Making excuses as to why the rule violation is okay
ANY GUT FEELING REGARDING THE WAY AN ADULT IS INTERACTING WITH MINORS
If you Observe Rule Breaking Red Flag Behaviors or have any Concerns:
Interrupt the behavior and explain the rule
Let a Y Program Director or Executive Director know about your concern
Let Y leadership know by calling 509-662-2109
Reporting Suspected Abuse
Washington State asks that anyone that suspects that a child or vulnerable adult is being abused or neglected, report it to proper authorities.
If the person is in immediate danger/harm, call 911
If the person is not in immediate danger/harm, call Abuse Reporting Hotline at (866) END-HARM or (866) 363-4276