This is going to be one of my most passionate blogs yet. I find that as I get older, especially now that I am a mother, this topic is something I want to scream from my rooftop to every single person I know because we all have kids in our lives that we love.
I just finished watching today's episode of Dr. Phil. Two brave victims from the Jerry Sandusky sex abuse case shared their stories in hopes to impact the lives of others. Dr. Phil ended with this life-changing advice that will resound with me today and always and I hope everyone will read this and truly understand how important it is to teach children to self-protect.
So in case you missed it, here is what he had to say:
"You can't always be there (to protect your children) and you need to know as much as you can about who you're exposing your children to (teachers, youth leaders, pastors, priests, coaches, etc.) Teach your kids to not give people the benefit of the doubt (but gather information). Instead, teach your kids to trust their instincts. If it doesn't feel right it probably isn't. And if you say no and you're wrong you will not get in trouble. It is okay for you to say no... you do it and talk to me about it. We've got your back and we will take care of you."
I honestly feel like this information could save children from abuse if we all would have those talks with our kids (age appropriate of course) but there are small steps you can take when they're 2+. I have started teaching Brenna in a simple way. I hope you will try with your kids, too!
