5. Learn the facts.

THE UGLY TRUTH.

We can't protect kids from what we don't understand.  

It's difficult to think about these things, but we must.  Here are just a few truths I wish every person knew:

• Most child abuse victims know & trust their predator.  
• "Grooming" a victim is a gradual process that results in the victim trusting the perpetrator.
• Most recorded instances of sexual assault are against victims younger than 18.
• Sex trafficking is common in the United States.
• Most survivors of child abuse never report it.
• Most survivors of child abuse are abused again later in life.
• 80% of abuse occurs in isolated, one-on-one situations with an adult.
• Most survivors have blocked their memories of abuse, yet experience the symptoms.

The Darkness to Light website is an excellent resource for statistics & studies.