As we move into the summer weather there can be a relaxed attitude as it relates to your children and their free time. Its summer, school is out, kids must play!  I would like to shed some light and possibly open a family discussion on ways to possibly prevent sexual abuse in children. We are aware of recent news stories where our children have been victimized by people we trust! Teachers, coaches, ministers, family members, and friends.  We must not forget that perpetrators may also be children. Think sleep away camp, sleepovers, and playdates. We should prepare our children by having a conversation about healthy touch. Although this is not a topic that many choose to discuss it is necessary to protect our children.  Parents may not be aware of some of the signs of child sexual abuse. Here are a few signs that at first may not be apparent as abuse.

… if we are not informed and do not know the signs, we put our children at risk

Some Physical Signs of Child Sexual Abuse:

• Persistent or recurring pain during urination or bowel movements

• Wetting or soiling accidents unrelated to toilet training

• Sexually transmitted diseases

• Chronic stomach pain

• Headaches

Some Emotional Signs:

• Anxiety and depression

• Sleep disturbances, including nightmares or night terrors

• Change in eating habits

• Unusual fear of certain people or places; reluctance to be alone with a certain person

• Changes in mood that could including anger, aggressiveness towards parents, siblings, friends, pets

• Rebellion or withdrawal; runaway behavior

• Change in attitude towards school or academic performance; lack of interest in friends, sports, or other activities

• Unexplained or frequent health problems like headaches or stomach aches

• Poor self-esteem; avoidance of relationships

• Self-mutilation or change in body perception, like thinking of self or body as dirty or bad; suicidal thoughts

• Regression to previously outgrown behaviors, for example, bedwetting or thumb sucking

• Abnormal sexual behaviors or knowledge of advanced sexual language and behaviors

• Too “perfect” behavior or overly compliant behavior

Be in-tune with a change in your child’s behaviors.

The safety of your child is a parent’s earnest desire, however, if we are not informed and do not know the signs we put our children at risk. Be in-tune with a change in your child’s behaviors.

About the Author:

Natalie Bryan, LCSW has been devoted to serving her community and advocating for others. After completing her B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus in Early Childhood and Psychology, Natalie went on to complete her Master’s in Social Work at Adelphi University. Natalie is also the founder of P.E.A.R.L, (Providing Education and Advocacy to Rebuild Lives ) an organization that focuses on children and families in our community. Learn more about Natalie Bryan by visiting www.wearepearl.org or contacting her at the following email address, ThePearlInc@gmail.com .