WHAT SHOULD I DO?

• If my child reports he or she has been abused?
• If I suspect my child has been abused?

One of the most important things a parent can do is respond in a calm and matter of fact manner.  

Listen to the words and feelings of your child and observe their body language.  

Try to find out what happened and reassure your child that she or he has done nothing wrong. Let your child know that you are glad that she or he told and that you will do what ever you can to keep your child safe.  

Many people are tempted to handle the disclosure on their own. Yet, because sexual abuse involves some very complicated dynamics and is against the law, it is important to seek professional help. The staff at OUR House, the Department for Children and Families, and the law enforcement officers who work with OUR House have been specially trained to respond to child sexual abuse. Working together as a team, we will conduct a fair and impartial investigation. If the alleged abuse is substantiated, OUR House can provide your child with professional counseling.

If you believe your child, or a child you know, has suffered sexual abuse, call the Vermont Department for Children and Families at 800-649-5285. You can make a report without disclosing your personal information. You can also call OUR House at 802-476-8825 for more information.