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*** TRIGGER WARNING ***
*** This post talks about child s*xu*al abuse. ***
Family and friends Christmas parties are great, unless you're a child who has been groomed by, or been encouraged to behave in an inappropriate way with a family member or friend before. It may feel terrifying that they've got to spend time with this person again this year.
Unfortunately, it's important to understand that s*xu*l abuse offenders are often someone that a child and their family knows.
This kind of abuse does not always involve a high level of violence and the child may or may not be aware of what is happening. Sometimes this can happen when other adults are in the house, but none of them know it is happening. That's why we need you to have this conversation with your child before any Christmas occasion.
Talk to your child about 'PANTS', before every party, remind them of 'PANTS' when you get there.
This video can help young children to understand PANTS - https://youtu.be/-lL07JOGU5o (Pantosaurus and his pants song - Youtube)
Nobody should see what's under your child's pants. Tell them that their privates are private, and that their body belongs to them. If they feel uncomfortable in a situation then can always say NO. If they are told to keep a secret, they should say no and then tell a trusted adult. Speak up, even if that other adult tells them not.
Here is PANTS broken down to help you teach your child!
P - Privates are private
A - Always remember your body belongs to you
N - No means no
T - Talk about secrets that upset you
S - Speak up someone can help
- - - - - - - Remind your child of these rules before any family party - - - - - - - - -
- Keep the door open if you are in another room. Open it if anyone closes it or leave the room.
- Remind your child that it's okay to say no to any hugs or kisses that they don't want.
- Use a special code phrase with your child for any party / gathering in case they feel uncomfortable - e.g. "I've left something in the car" or a word that they will remember "beans."
- Remind your child who their safe adults are, e.g. Mum, Dad, Guardian, etc.
- After the party, do a debrief, ask questions like - ( What was the best part of the party? - Did anything happen that made you feel scared or upset? - Did anything surprise you? )
We know that Christmas time is busy, and you probably have so much to do, but PLEASE don't forget to have this conversation.
Share this post to your friends so that they can talk to their children too.
For more information - What is child abuse? | Cheshire Constabulary
Stay safe.
PCSO Lizzie Jolley 22582
#crewepolice #pcsojolley22582
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