jensieblue
Beach Fanatic
I hesitate to comment on this...I am a frequent tourist and not a resident. But on the other hand. I have information gained from a 35+ year career working both with victems of abuse and with abusers. First, have the kind of relationship with your child where your child knows they can tell you anything without fear of reprisal. If what they have to tell you is a problem, you will help them deal with it...that is what parents do..whether that is a problem with drugs, alcohol,a neighbor or police. Your child has to know with confidence you are on their side. Second, be involved in your child's life. Whether that is sports, scouts, school, church, friends. Know that pedophiles come in all stripes. Know your friends parents, know those that chaperone your child. Trust me when I tell you I have had people of all sorts...pastors, police, volunteers, teachers...you get my drift, referrred to me by courts secondary to confirmed incidents of sexual abuse...Never, never dismiss what your child tells you. Encourage your child, children, to stay in groups. Tell you child to call you any where, any time, night or day, if they ever feel uncomfortable. And promise that you will come get them. Develop your child's confidence and esteem. Pediophiles are skilled at seeking out the child who is isolated, unsure, unconfident, and they maliputate these troubles to their advantage. Never forget that their are assults from known assailants and random assaults of opportunity. Your child is wandering around the mall, etc. No place is completely safe but explain to your child knowledge is power.
