​What to do if a child discloses abuse:

1. Stay Calm
   1. ​Try not to show panic, shock, anger, etc.
   2. Say “I’m really glad that you told me” to reassure the child they are not in trouble
   3. Say “It’s not your fault” to reassure the child they are not responsible for what happened
2. Listen
   1. Listen to the child: If the child is having trouble finding the words, be patient. Allow the child to tell you what happened in their own words. 
   2. Don’t interrogate. The child’s statements are the main evidence in a case, so it’s important to not “taint” the evidence by asking leading questions or suggesting what may have happened. 
   3. Say, “I believe you.” False accusations by children are extremely rare.
   4. Remember not to force the child to discuss what has happened and meet them where they are at. 
3. Report
   1. Ensure the child is not in immediate danger, then report the incident. Use the child’s vocabulary when reporting. 
   2. Don’t keep it a secret. By reporting abuse, we demonstrate that children are valued and worthy of protection. Reporting abuse helps to stop the cycle of abuse. ​​

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*adapted from the Mama Bear Effect*
https://www.themamabeareffect.org/shop/sku00219-when-a-child-discloses-524