When a child discloses abuse, the first thing to remember is to stay calm. Coming forward takes incredible courage and trust; it is usually very hard for children to open up. If a child discloses abuse to you, it is important to listen fully to what he or she is saying. Limit your questions to short, simple queries: What happened? Who did this? Where? When? Let the child know you want to help and coming forward is the right thing to do. As soon as possible, make a report with a child protection agency in your state. For more information, read the VIRTUS® article, “When a Child Discloses” on lacatholics.org/did-you-know/.