Bermuda Parent Bermuda Parent Spring 2018 | Page 12

little ones
BY ALICIA RESNIK
I AM SPECIAL
I AM WORTHY
I HAVE PURPOSE
SCARS
“Sexual abuse has a deleterious impact on a child’s sense of self. SCARS have provided us
with a guide to facilitate conversations about self-worth and sexual abuse. Such discussions
are paramount in promoting awareness and prevention of child sexual abuse.”
—Dr. Tina J. Arorash, Ph.D. Registered Bermuda Psychologist
s parents and caregivers it’s
important for us to help our
children feel save and
protected. In this three
part series, we share con-
versation suggestions compiled by
SCARS for parents and caregivers.
Some topics may be difficult but,
they are necessary. As adults, it’s
our responsibility to protect
our children and prevent child
sexual abuse.
10
For children ages
4 to 8 years
At this age, it’s important for
children to know they are valued
and loved. This builds a child’s
self-esteem and confidence, and
reinforces the knowledge that
they are special. Below are discus-
sion suggestions for children in
this age group. Children need to
know that as parents and caregiv-
ers we are listening, and that we
value what they say.
Discussion questions:
1. Do you know you are special?
2. What is love; who loves you, do you
feel loved?
3. Do you know your body is private
and belongs to you?
4. Your body parts have proper
names. Discuss these with your
child. Avoid pet names for private
parts. Teach children the proper
names - mouth, breasts, vagina,
penis, buttocks.