THINGS TO NOTE:

• Most child victims know their abusers.
• People who abuse children look and act just like everyone else.
• Most child victims never report the abuse.
• Sexually abused children who keep it a secret or who “tell” and are not believed are at far greater risk than the general population for psychological, emotional, social and physical problems often lasting into adulthood.
• Experts estimate that one in four girls and one in six boys are sexually abused before their eighteenth birthdays.
• The abuser sometimes threatens the child or a family member.​
• Some children are too young to understand. Many abusers tell children the abuse is “okay” or a “game.”

IF A CHILD DISCLOSES ABUSE:

• Do not show anger or disbelief.
  
• Believe the child and make sure he/she knows it.
  
• Seek the help of a professional who is trained to ask questions about abuse.
• Report all cases of suspected abuse, both inside and outside the immediate family.
• Do not panic. Abused children who receive help can and do heal.

Volunteers continually make our Stop Child Abuse and Neglect (SCAN) Puppet Show a success each year!