Children and Sexual Assault

When a child has been sexually assaulted:

• If a child tells you something happened, believe him or her.
• Love, support and listen to the child.
• Observe the child's behavior and take notes.
• Treat the child as normally as possible.
• Don't try to investigate the case yourself.
• Don't interrogate or interview the child.
• Don't reward the child (with candy, movies, toys, etc.) for giving information.
• Maintain normal routines.
• Write down concerns and questions for investigators.
• Don't overreact. Your child senses your emotions and mirrors them.
• Don't talk about the case in front of the child or anywhere the child might overhear.
• Don't let your personal feelings about the perpetrator influence the child's feelings.

Signs and symptoms a child has been sexually abused:

• A sudden change in behavior.
• Not wanting to be alone with a certain person.
• Was potty trained and has begun wetting the bed.
• Frequent urinary tract infections.
• Redness, odor or drainage from genitals.
• Complaints of pain in the anus, vagina or penis.

If you suspect or the child has stated that the assault/abuse has occurred within 72 hours (3 days) please come to the Emergency Department immediately. If you suspect or your child has stated that the assault/abuse has occurred more than 72 hours (3 days) ago please call 419-526-8100, to schedule a SANE examination.