Child abuse is a tragic reality, with one form of child abuse or another getting reported every 2 minutes… and some not getting reported at all.

Understanding child abuse may help you deal with it if it’s already happened, and it may help you prevent it happening in your family.  Be honest with your child about the world they live in. Talk to your child about sex and keeping safe from being abused. Keeping them informed may - just may - keep them safe.  

Watch out for the signs of child abuse: physical damage, behavioural changes, chronic stomach pains, sudden interest in sexual behaviour or sudden dislike of being touched and cuddled, sudden dislike of a friend or family member. Please be aware that sometimes an abused child will not show any obvious signs. 

Talking about child abuse is painful. If your child tells you they’ve been abused, stay calm. They will be feeling scared or embarrassed, so you need to reassure them and help them deal with it. 

If you feel up to it, you may feel better if you discuss the issue with somebody anonymous, somebody other than the authorities and the counsellors. You can always talk online to other parents on Kidspot Social.  

Related articles:

• First aid and emergencies.
• What older children fear.