• 03
  • January
    2012

The recent child abuse allegations at Penn State, Syracuse, and around Colorado, while unfortunate, sheds light on an issue not often discussed between children and parents.

This article from the Juvenile Justice Information Exchange discusses how parents can increase their awareness for signs of child sexual abuse. The article further encourages maintaining open dialogue with your children because they will feel more comfortable approaching you with concerns or problems. The article also tells parents to pay attention to changes in physical behavior and movement if communication with your child is difficult.

If your child approaches you with allegations of sexual abuse you must not become visibly enraged or dismissive at what they are telling you. They may confuse your emotions as being directed towards them. Instead, this article from GoLocalProv.com advises that you tell your child that you are listening to them. Remember, your child relies on you for security and comfort. Becoming angry or dismissive may make matters worse.

Parents, if you need help or suspect sexual abuse to your child, contact local authorities or organizations that can offer help and guidance for you and your child(ren). These calls are confidential.

Adams County - (303) 412-8121
Arapahoe County - (303) 636-1750
Denver County - (303) 944-3000
Douglas County - (303) 663-6270
Jefferson County - (303) 271-HELP/4357

If you suspect your child has been sexually abused in a school setting, please contact local authorities immediately. Further, if you would like to know about your legal protections, please contact our offices. Our attorneys can help address your concerns.