Family Resources
Addressing the topic of child sexual abuse or violence can be uncomfortable for parents. As Kurtça (2022) found, parents often avoid talking to their child about sexual abuse because they think the child is not old enough, will not understand, or will become upset or anxious about the topic. However, for children to be safe and protected, parents need to address this difficult topic.
While Erin’s Law requires schools to provide age-appropriate sexual abuse prevention instruction, parents can opt their child out of these lessons. To honor parents’ opinions on how their child should receive this important instruction, below are some resources parents may find helpful when addressing this topic with their children.
Ohio Department of Children and Youth
For information on reporting suspected abuse or what happens when making a report, visit the Ohio Department of Children & Youth.
Ohio Network of Children's Advocacy Centers
For information on signs of abuse, including sexual abuse, visit the Ohio Network of Children’s Advocay Centers.
Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence
For resources on abuse prevention as well as resources for those affected by sexual abuse, visit Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence.
References:
Kurtça, T. T. (2022). Parent education in child sexual abuse prevention programs. Current Approaches in Psychiatry, 14(1), 247-254. https://doi.org/10.18863/pgy.983264