How to Prevent Child Molestation

Let her scream. As a matter of fact, be happy she screams. Many children in abusive homes cannot scream when they are afraid due to the learned behavior of staying quiet in order to avoid being hurt. If a molester approaches your child you want her to scream. Screaming draws attention and attention will most likely persuade a molester to flee.

Know where your child is--always. Have him check in regularly and be consistent with this rule. After following this for a length of time, checking in will become habit (for which you will be thankful come teenage years). A child molester has less chance of harming your child if you know where he is and what his plans are.

Teach her about her body at a young age and explain how no one is allowed to touch her on or around her private areas. Avoid scare tactics by telling her the facts. Fear will only make her more vulnerable to a child molester because fear hinders clear thinking.

Use appropriate terms for body parts (When he's older and know these names you can use slang terms if it makes him more comfortable). This will keep the discussions at a level he can understand. Let's face the facts; it is important for him to know the correct names of his body parts because if he is molested it will help in any investigations, observations and court procedures.

Teach her to respect herself as well as to demand respect from others. In learning how she should be treated, she will be much quicker to recognize when she is being treated in an ill manner. A molester will also identify a child who has this knowledge and be more likely to move on, leaving your child safe.

Don't put off his claims to being uncomfortable around someone, even if that someone is your parent, grandparent or best friend. Molesters are people from all walks of life. If he is insistent he doesn't want to stay with someone there might be a good reason. Children are very perceptive, even when they don't understand their feelings.

Keep communication lines open at all times. Talking to her is essential as it teaches her to always be comfortable telling you anything. Many children who are molested feel they have done something wrong and will not talk about what has happened if they aren't comfortable with you.

Show him how to be polite but cautious of strangers even while reassuring him there are many good people in the world. He should know it is OK to question everyone, no matter who they are.