Responding to Child Abuse

If a Child Reaches Out to You

DO:

• Remain calm.
• Believe the child.
• Allow the child to talk.
• Show interest and concern.
• Reassure and support the child.
• Take action. It could save a child’s life.

DON’T:

• Panic or overreact.
• Press to child to talk.
• Promise anything you can’t control.
• Confront the offender.
• Blame or minimize the child’s feelings.
• Overwhelm the child with questions