PREPARING YOUR CHILD
It is important that you talk to your child before their appointment with us. Here are some important guidleines.
REASSURE
It's important that your child know it is okay to talk to us and that the Center is a safe place. Let them know that they are not in any trouble for telling, and it's a very brave thing to do.
EMOTIONS ARE OK
This may be an overwhelming and stressful time for your child. Let them know that it is okay for them to express their emotions.
DO NOT QUESTION
It's important not to question the child about the details of what may or may not have happened. Your role as a supportive caregiver is to be just that. Tell your child that you believe them and will keep them safe. Let the investigators do the investigating. If you have questions, ask the investigators.
DO NOT COACH
It's also important NOT to tell your child what to say or offer rewards for talking to us, as this could be misconstrued as coaching and could seriously damage the criminal case against the abuser.
WHAT YOU CAN SAY
Our Family Advocate is available to help you with how to talk with your child. Below is an example of what you might say to prepare your child.
"We are going to the Child Advocacy Center. It is a place where kids go to talk about important stuff. The person you will be talking to talks to lots of kids about what might have happened to them. It's okay to tell them everything. You are not in any trouble."