By Caroline Goodell Lindsey, a new student at her high school, naturally wanted to be “in” with the other students. Walking to an off-campus drama class, Lindsey conversed with Taryn, a popular girl. Taryn asked Lindsey if she smoked marijuana. “No,” Lindsey responded. Taryn said, “We’re gonna go and smoke before class. You seem cool. […]
A Quick Review of Common Behaviors, “Sex Play” and Sexualized Behavior
Just a quick refresher about the difference between typical behaviors and sexualized behaviors. Your intuition will help you know the difference and remember, if you suspect abuse, you need to report it! GENERAL COMMON BEHAVIORS Bodies Touch Games Gender identification Self stimulation/masturbation TYPICAL & HEALTHY – “Sex Play” Spontaneous Mutual Good humored Good […]
Sexuality is a Fundamental Part of Being Human
Just like we are emotional, spiritual, intellectual and social, we are also sexual. Just like all these other elements of being human, sexuality develops over time and all throughout our lives. Healthy childhood sexuality does not look like adult sexuality – it usually looks like play. We worry when children engage in behaviors that appear to be […]
GUEST POST: Manners, Secrets & Sex Ed — Keeping Kids Safer
By Feather Berkower We are thoughtful parents, friends and relatives, but sometimes we say things that inadvertently contribute to a child’s vulnerability. Here are some everyday examples – and suggestions for how to strengthen communication with children with regard to secrets, consent, manners, sex ed and more. Secrets – “Let’s not tell Mom about the […]
Red Flags and Warning Signs in Adults
Predators can be anyone… a man, a woman, another child. It is important for parents to understand that predators gain access to your child through you. Pay attention to your “gut” and look for consistent patterns in red flag behaviors such as someone who: Consistently insists upon arranging to spend alone one-on-one time with a particular […]
