Trusted Adults

What children should know

Children should know:

What children should be able to do

Children should select five trusted adults from at least three different areas of their life; with at least one from their family, at least one from school and at least one from somewhere else. The child should let the trusted adults know they have identified them as part of their support network. The child should be able to talk about significant moments in their life with their trusted adults and this could include communicating about things that are happening in their life or things they are learning in Orbit.

Children should be able to list the qualities of the relationship they have with a trusted adult and understand that just because someone has authority over them, it does not automatically mean the qualities of the relationship are positive.

Why this is an important part of child sexual abuse prevention

Creating an environment where children feel comfortable to share things that worry them and have someone to listen and be supportive encourages healthy relationships between children and adults.  Having a healthy attachment to trusted adults is the single most important protective factor to protect children from sexual abuse. Responding sensitively and supportively is crucial in helping children talk about what is happening to them.

Ideas for having conversations on this concept