Paths to Healing
Applying Principles of Prevention of Child Abuse Prevention
Outreach Services Director, Paula Schoenberg
It is often too late to talk to kids that are experiencing abuse because they are being told not to tell anyone of what is going on or are being threatened. It is of crucial importance to implement primary prevention before anything happens to children. Make it easier for kids to be able to talk about their feelings and their bodies.
Primary prevention is important, but also, it is not just one time talk. Ongoing prevention and open communication is the best for children. Parents should also use proper terminology when referring to a child's genitals.
There are nine principles of effective prevention:
1. Comprehensive
2. Varied teaching methods
3. Theory driven
4. Sufficient dosage
5. Positive relationships
6. Appropriately timed
7. Social-culturally relevant
8. Well trained staff
9. Outcome evaluation
It takes all of these principles to have an effective result.
Talking to children as early as possible is the best prevention policy. It is actually suggested going into Head Start to start prevention. Our advocates are often asked to go into schools and/or organizations and clubs to teach healthy relationships, good touch/bad touch, etc. If you would like a presentation, please contact us at 608.348.5995.