The Child Advocacy Center urges parents to have open and supportive conversations with their children about body safety. Parents should ask simple, open-ended questions like, “Has anything made you feel unsafe or uncomfortable at school?” and allow their child to do the talking. It is important to reassure children that they are not in trouble and will never be in trouble for sharing their feelings or experiences.
Conversations should focus on body safety, including the importance of personal boundaries, the right to say “no” to unwanted touch, and identifying trusted adults they can talk to if they ever feel unsafe. Parents should avoid mentioning specific individuals or details about the investigation, as this may unintentionally influence their child’s response.
If a child discloses anything concerning, regarding themselves or something they witnessed, parents should stay calm, listen without asking too many questions, and reassure their child that they did the right thing by speaking up. Any disclosures or concerns should be reported to law enforcement immediately, rather than attempting to investigate the situation independently.
Parents who need guidance on navigating these conversations are encouraged to contact the Leavenworth Atchison Child Advocacy Center for support.
The Leavenworth Atchison Child Advocacy Center can be reached by calling 913-651-6440 or online at www.casalvks.org/cac.
