By: the Dakota Children’s Advocacy Center
At the Dakota Children’s Advocacy Center (DCAC), we often remind caregivers that more than 90% of children who experience abuse are harmed by someone they know and trust. The best line of defense starts at home, with open, ongoing conversations about body safety, personal boundaries, and identifying safe adults a child can turn to if something doesn’t feel right.
Caregivers can also take steps to reduce opportunities for abuse in youth-serving organizations that their children participate in. Here are a few proactive questions to ask:
- Does the organization have a child protection policy? Don’t hesitate to ask for a copy before enrolling your child.
- Does the policy limit uninterruptible, one-on-one situations? The goal isn’t to ban them entirely, but to ensure they’re always visible and interruptible—never behind closed doors.
- How are employees and volunteers screened? A thorough application, personal references, and a criminal background check should all be standard.
- Do older and younger children interact? If so, how? It’s a misconception that only adults abuse children. Research suggests that 20–25% of child sexual abuse is committed by another child.
- Are there clear procedures for reporting suspected abuse? Policies should include mandatory training on reporting for all staff and volunteers. (U.S. law requires adults in authority, such as coaches and officials, to be SafeSport trained and report suspicions of abuse.)
By asking these questions and advocating for prevention policies, caregivers play a powerful role in keeping children safe—at home, in school, and in the community.