Answers For Parents

You want to protect your children. We want to help.

Child sexual abuse is a "hidden" crime. Usually it is committed not by strangers, but by people both you and your children trust. There is no "profile" of an abuser, but there are some things you can be aware of. Child sexual abuse crosses the boundaries of income, race, and age.

• 1 of every 3 girls will be sexually assaulted before she is 18.
• 1 of every 5 boys will be sexually assaulted before he is 18.
• At least 80% of the time, children know the offenders, most often a trusted parent or caretaker.

The more information you have, the more you can do to help protect your children.

To read or print off a copy of our informational brochure for parents, click here.

For information on the definitions of child abuse, click here and to find out about what to look for if you suspect abuse, click here.

If you suspect your child or another child may be the victim of child abuse or neglect, your first step is to report the abuse. There are experts available 24/7 to help. Click here to report abuse or find out more.