Protecting children from violence and abuse

Violence against children takes many forms: hitting, humiliation, neglect, forced labor, sexual abuse, and bullying, including online. It is against the law and leaves deep scars.

Warning signs

• Unexplained or repeated injuries
• Fear of an adult, or refusing to go home
• Sudden changes in behavior, withdrawal, aggression
• Sexual knowledge or behavior that is not appropriate for the child's age
• Missing school, tiredness, constant hunger

Prevention

• Teach children that their body belongs to them and that they have the right to say no.
• Explain the difference between a “good secret” (a surprise) and a “bad secret” that makes them feel uncomfortable.
• Online: keep an eye on the apps they use, talk about strangers on the internet, and remind them that they can tell you anything without being punished.

How to respond

• Listen to the child, believe them, and do not make them feel guilty.
• Do not confront the suspected abuser yourself.
• Report the situation to the authorities (police, gendarmerie, social services) or to a health professional.

Not sure where to turn? Contact us.