As we enter a summer season, there is much excitement to be had for kids of all ages during these summer months. Many of us agree that it is the best time of the year, and have positive memories from summer adventures. While parents and families are seeking engaging, character building, AND fun activities for their kids, it’s important to consider “safety” on that list of essential criteria. When it comes to safety, there are some common practices that readily come to mind: maintaining safety around water and swimming pools, wearing helmets and protective gear during sports or games, reapplying sunscreen regularly and staying hydrated in the Texas heat. These are examples of basic and important habits to establish and reinforce so that kids have positive memories, rather than injuries, from summer experiences. There is another realm of child safety that all caregivers should also be paying attention to this summer: child protection and, more specifically, child sexual abuse prevention. In reality, 1 out of 10 children will be sexually abused before their 18th birthday. Read that again: ONE out of TEN. 90% of abused children know their abuser, so it is important that we understand how to create safe […]
Choosing Safe Summer Experiences for Youth