Everyone that works and interacts with children should have clear boundaries in place. This can include rules like: staying in public view and avoiding isolated one-on-one situations with children and ensuring that two or more adults are always paired together to work ...

Statistically, one in four children will experience some form of abuse – sexual, physical, emotional or neglect – during their childhood. Sadly, most child abuse goes either unnoticed or unreported, due to fear, a lack of knowledge in what constitutes abuse, or a reluc...

School-aged children should be taught about the dangers of sexual abuse, and the signs of risky situations that could lead to potential abuse. Sexual abuse and exploitation does not only happen through in-person touch; it can happen online or through the phone as well....

Safe adults should plan consistent and frequent timeframes to talk to children, ranging in age from preschool to teen, about body safety. It is most helpful for children to be aware of boundaries and rules surrounding how they should treat others, and how they should e...

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...