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 child
- Shares inappropriate information with the child (that normally would be shared with adults)
- Seems preoccupied with a particular child
- Seems “too good to be true”
- Insists on physical contact even when the child does not want the physical contact
- Refuses to allow the child to set his/her own limits
- Frequently walks in on tweens while using the restroom or changing
- Makes inappropriate comments about a child’s changing body
It is important for adults to not dismiss their gut feelings or dismiss red flags because of a person’s age, their relationship with your family or that person’s social status. Boys and girls are nearly at identical risk for abuse. If your gut is telling you something does not seem “right” that is your instinct talking to you and letting you know you need to take a closer look at what is going on.
Used with permission from Savvy Parents Safe Kids.
