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