Bermuda Parent Bermuda Parent Spring 2018 | Page 13

5. Your private parts are private and so are other peoples.
6. Respect other people’s bodies. Do you understand what
this means?
7. You shouldn’t feel forced to give affection and you
shouldn’t force other people to give you affection.
8. You can say ‘No’ when someone you know and love
makes you feel uncomfortable, even an adult. NO means
NO! It’s important to tell someone about any confusing
feelings you have.
9. Respect when others say NO. NO means NO! Does this
make sense to you?
4. I will keep you safe (this is a priority for parents/
guardians).
5. I love you and am here for you.
6. I will help you and support you.
7. What happened to you is against the law. Laws are like
rules, only more serious. There are consequences when
people break rules.
8. We can talk about this as much or as little as you like.
9. I’m sorry that I couldn’t protect you. I love you and we
will get through this together.
10. Listen to your ‘uh oh feelings’. Pay attention to butter-
flies in your stomach.
11. Explain the difference to your child between a surprise
and a secret. Give examples such as: surprises make ev-
eryone happy (surprise parties, birthday presents, a spe-
cial outing, crafts made at school). Secrets can be hurtful,
scary, cause sadness or anger. (Being bribed, threatened,
told not to tell, and/or being coerced into not telling).
Tell someone you trust when a secret or surprise makes
you uncomfortable.
12. Finding your voice and “using your words” to be safe.
Practice “using your words” and what this means.
13. Explain healthy ways to cope with sad, angry and
scared feelings.
14. Cyber Safety – Visit www.cybertips.bm and discuss how
to stay safe when on-line.
Suggested questions to ask your child after they attend
events or sleep-overs:
1. Did you enjoy yourself?
2. How did you spend your time?
3. What was your favorite part of the party or sleepover?
4. What was the least favorite part?
5. Did you feel safe?
6. If applicable - you seem sad today, is there anything you
want to share?
7. Always ask if there is anything else your child would like
to share and create a safe environment for them to speak
openly with you.
If your child discloses they were abused it’s important
to remain calm. Reinforce the following:
1. I believe you.
2. What happened wasn’t your fault and it shouldn’t have
happened.
3. Thank you for telling me.
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