Know the children's friends and family. We and many other parents in our circle make it a practice to never send a child into a home or family environment where we have not been. We have often made the effort to invite a friend and their family to our home for a potluck barbeque or a "games and munchies night" before we let the children play at their home. And always make sure that you know where your children are when they are not home.
Cars are a problem. Research indicates that abuse often happens in a car, or the child is transported in a car prior to the abuse happening. Let your child know that you expect them never to get into a car with anyone without your permission. That will minimize the risk and help them have an out if they are invited to do so.
Self-confidence and awareness are critical. Teach your children that their bodies are their own. They need to know that it is perfectly acceptable to say they do not want a hug or a kiss or that certain physical contacts make them uncomfortable. Help them feel comfortable in saying no to anything that feels "bad" to them.
Help them feel accepted by you. Abusers often choose children as their targets because they are so trusting. Children thrive on approval of the important adults in their lives, and will often be open to engaging in conduct which will bring them that approval. If a child knows he or she is loved unconditionally and is accepted by their father and mother, they will be less likely to be pressured into a sexual situation for acceptance.
Check out the predators in your area. Many states and other governmental entities have now put their sex offenders' registry on line. Check out the listing of online registries at sexoffenders.com to see about the registry in your state. Most can be searched by zip code. Finding out who in your area might have a history as a sexual abuser can help you just be a little more aware of what might be a risk.
