Last week, we covered young children and natural curiosity about their bodies. This week, we will explore natural curiosity behaviors in school-aged children (around 7-12 years old). It’s important to understand the difference between appropriate and inappropriate, as ...

If a child tells you about sexual abuse, the first and most important step to take is to listen to him or her. Let the child fully express the situation and how he or she is feeling. It’s important to be aware that children may not always disclose abuse in clear terms....

The Archdiocese of Los Angeles has created gardens of healing in each of the Archdiocese’s pastoral regions, dedicated to those harmed by sexual abuse, in their family, church or community. Located at St. Camillus Pastoral Center in Boyle Heights (San Gabriel Pastoral ...

The Office of Safeguard the Children of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles annually publishes the Working Together to Prevent Child Sexual Abuse Brochure, which provides an up-to-date listing of safe environment policies, programs, resources, contact numbers and other impo...

Communities thrive with appropriate boundaries in place. Without them, everyone is left vulnerable, especially children, in an “anything goes” culture. As safe adults, we can empower children by defining and strengthening our own boundaries. Children learn by watching ...

As safe adults, we want to be available for the children in our lives to share their worries and fears with us. However, it is natural to be uncomfortable if a child discloses abuse or mistreatment. Asking necessary questions and getting pertinent information is critic...

With a cell phone, a photo can be snapped anywhere – out on a walk, in the classroom, even in the locker room or a bathroom. So, it is important to talk to your children about when it is appropriate and when it is not to use a camera and how they should think about sha...

A parent’s crisis response may significantly influence how children respond. Books and stories can help provide understanding and comfort to children during times of crisis. “Trinka and Sam: The Big Fire” is available for download in English and Spanish from The Nation...

The Archdiocese of Los Angeles has established a Wildfire Victims Emergency Relief Fund to provide financial assistance to help victims of the fires with food, clothing, and other needs. With so much devastation and suffering there is tremendous need for aid, not only ...

Being a safe adult is more than just taking some classes on abuse prevention and filling in the right answers. Adults who model healthy behaviors are a strong example for children, helping them distinguish safe from unsafe adults. Basic actions, like wearing a seatbelt...