GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month.
The Children's Advocacy Center of Kent County is asking for your help to raise awareness by wearing blue this Friday, April 12.
The CDC stated that one in four girls and one in 20 boys will experience sexual abuse before the age of 18.
According to experts, abuse can cause years of emotional and psychological trauma for survivors, which is why it's so important to have these conversations with children.
"I think sometimes parents have reservations on introducing that, but it's really empowering children to understand that their body is not something to be ashamed of, and to normalize, anatomically correct body part names, and talking about safe touches and unsafe touches," said Emily Kulhanek, an advocate. "It only empowers the child to make a better decision for themselves and to be able to reach out to a safe adult, if that's needed."
If there isn't a safe adult in the house, you can always tell a teacher, counselor or police officer, or call Michigan Children's Protective Services 24-hour hotline at 855-444-3911.
Advocates said breaking the silence and speaking out helps decrease the stigma of talking about abuse.
"It is never, ever, ever a child's fault," said Alicia Cadena, a clinical supervisor. "No matter what happened in the situation and knowing that they will be believed. I think so much of the shame can come from keeping it a secret, and so I think by telling your safe adults telling mandated reporters, getting that out there and sharing your story in a safe way can start that healing process for you."
To learn more about the Children's Advocacy Center of Kent County click, here.
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