Recent research indicates that 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 5 boys are sexually abused before their 18th birthday.
Many of these children are molested by someone they know well. A predator might be a relative or close family friend. The best way for your child to avoid being a victim is to educate them about what is acceptable and what is unacceptable behavior between children and adults.
The fact is, the best defense is a good offense. If we educate ourselves and our children, we can be aware of some of the ways an adult might be trying to manipulate a child’s trust as well as our own. The following information has been compiled from various sources including child molesters in treatment.
A predator might pay special attention to a child and make him or her feel special.
A predator might isolate your child by involving him or her in fun activities that require them to be alone together.
A predator might touch your child in your presence so that he or she thinks that you are comfortable with the touching.
Keep in mind that the first physical contact between a predator and his or her victim is often nonsexual and designed to desensitize the child.
A predator might take advantage of a child’s natural curiosity about sex by telling “dirty” jokes, showing him or her pornography or by playing sexual games.
A predator may offer to play games or buy treats for young children.
A predator might present him or herself as a sympathetic listener when parents, friends, and others disappoint a child.
A predator might eventually treat the child victim as a co-conspirator in their “relationship”.
The statistics and signs to be wary of are overwhelming to be sure. The good news is that at Premier Martial Arts we are educating a new generation of children. Through our kids martial arts training, our kids are taught not to be afraid to speak up for themselves or to question authority figures in uncomfortable situations, understand who is a stranger, inappropriate touching, the lights of safety, and more. Premier Martial Arts nationally recognized Kid Safe program educates and empowers our students at our nationwide locations.
