Instead of saying “don’t ever let anyone touch you in your private parts,” which puts the burden of proof on the child; say “No one has the right to touch you in the private parts of your body.” The difference is subtle, but many children don’t tell because they feel shame that somehow they “allowed” someone to touch them inappropriately.

There has been a great deal of media exposure concerning sexual abuse and exploitation of those who are younger or more vulnerable in our communities lately. Many people do not have a clear idea what constitutes sexual abuse and so are hesitant to discuss the issue with their children for fear of frightening them. However, the children are already afraid because they, too, hear the stories and see the faces of missing children on milk cartons and flyers. We need to speak frankly about this danger and in the same manner as we do when talking about protecting ourselves from the dangers of fire and traffic safety.

Fear Does Not Make Strong Powerful Children.

It is important that we teach our children while scary things happen in the world, there are more good people than bad people and we should not be afraid to enjoy life and meet new people. We need to empower them to be aware of people, places and circumstances and to trust their instincts and “gut feelings.”

We want them to know that by thinking of possible courses of action and sources of help, they will not panic. It is a goal of caring adults to help them understand the facts and feelings that surround someone taking unfair advantage of them. They need to be reassured that they will be able to find help when something occurs that makes them feel uncomfortable.

This workshop qualifies for continuing education for teachers, medical personnel, law enforcement, child care providers and other mandatory reporters. It can be tailored to your organization and locale.

Who should attend?

• Wellness and Human Resource staff

• Teachers and Administrators

• Childcare Providers and Advocates

• Judicial system

• Those who work with families in crisis

• Parents and families who want to learn cooperation

Participants will learn about:

• Realistic and unrealistic expectations

• Stages of growth

• Family Councils

• Acknowledging individual differences

• Differences between encouragement, bribes, and incentives

• Organizational and teaching tools

By shifting the emphasis in life and in the family from being right to being effective and trustful we can change the direction of a society of blamers.  We can teach by word and deed that mistakes are not final, they are learning experiences.

Seminar length can be one to three hours.  As always workshops and speeches are custom-designed to fit the needs of your organization and the individuals who attend.