Every two minutes, a person in the United States is sexually assaulted. Many of these people are between the ages of just 12-17 years old! It’s terrible to think, but younger children are at risk too. Because of this, it’s important to talk to your children early. Sexual abuse, sex trafficking, and human trafficking aren’t fun topics, but teaching them now could save their life. In addition to educating them about these topics, make sure they know what to do if they find themselves in a situation where this could happen. Preparing them now could save them from this fate later.
While this applies to all ages, this is especially important for teenagers and children with access to social media accounts. Though you may feel like a nosy parent at times, it’s important to keep tabs on your children’s internet use. Create an open and honest relationship with them, and talk with them about what’s going on in their lives. Knowing their friends and who they talk to online isn’t a bad thing! In fact, it could help you protect them from potentially dangerous situations.
Fortunately, sex offenders have to be registered. Once registered, they are not allowed in public parks or places where children could be. However, this doesn’t mean they can’t show up in your local grocery store or won’t be found walking down your street. Sit down and do your research to know who the registered sex offenders are near you. Make sure your children are aware of them as well.
Sadly, it’s not enough to just tell your children to find an adult. Children need to know which authority figures should be approached, and which should be avoided. Teach your kids about signs to look for, and numbers they can call if you can’t be reached. Children need to know what is considered okay and not okay, and what to do if an adult asks them to do something that is not okay.
The way you express and share love with your children won’t be something they forget. This will help shape your children’s self-image and how they express love to others. Be sure to communicate praise and positive messages to your children and set a good example for them. Unsurprisingly, children learn a lot from the behavior of their parents.
No matter where you live, these tips could not only help keep your child from falling victim to human trafficking but also help reduce the number of children who end up being trafficked as well! Remember to sit down and talk with your child and explain the dangers of human trafficking to them. One conversation now could help protect them in the future.
What tips do you have for protecting your children?
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