Keeping Children Safe

Keeping children safe can be challenging since many perpetrators who sexually abuse children are in positions of trust. Statistics say that 9 times out of 10 the perpetrator is someone that a child knows and trusts.

It’s not always easy to identify child sexual abuse—and it can be even more challenging to step in if you suspect something isn’t right. If a child tells you that someone makes them uncomfortable, even if they can’t tell you anything specific, listen.

If you aren’t sure if something should be reported or not, talk to your local law enforcement or child protective services. You can also call the U.S. Center for SafeSport or USA Swimming Safe Sport Staff and they can help you figure out if this is something that must be reported and to where.

Remember, you are not alone.

What to watch for

• Does not respect boundaries or listen when someone tells them “no”
  
• Engages in touching that a child or child’s parents/guardians have indicated is unwanted
  
• Tries to be a child’s friend rather than filling an adult role in the child’s life
  
• Does not seem to have age-appropriate relationships
  
• Talks with children about their personal problems or relationships
  
• Spends time alone with children outside of their role in the child’s life or makes up excuses to be alone with the child
  
• Expresses unusual interest in child’s sexual development, such as commenting on sexual characteristics or sexualizing normal behaviors
  
• Gives a child gifts without occasion or reason
  
• Spends a lot of time with one child in particular