children who are sexually abused know the person who hurt them.
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Often, it's someone the family trusts
It can be anyone. Watch behavior, not titles.
A relative
A family friend
A coach
A teacher
A babysitter
An older kid
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5 red flags to watch for
Red flag 1
Asks your child to keep secrets from you
Red flag 2
Gives gifts or special treats for no clear reason
Red flag 3
Finds ways to be alone with your child
Red flag 4
Texts or messages your child privately
Red flag 5
Lets your child break your rules, or turns them against you
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Your turn
Watch Sammy and the Safe Circle with your child
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It's usually not a stranger. A short movie for parents. Press play.
Read aloud uses your device's built-in American English voices. The "9 in 10" figure comes from child advocacy centers: at one center, 92% of the children they served knew and trusted the person who hurt them. For general information only. Not legal or medical advice. If you're worried about a child, the Childhelp hotline is free and open 24/7: 1-800-422-4453.