The news is filled with stories about kids being abused in places where they should be safe. Consider these safety tips: Ask about the background checks and screening criteria used to hire individuals given access to children. Ask questions—‘What if a person has a history of improper conduct toward children? How will the institution protect kids from such an individual? How will the institution provide adequate supervision of children at all times?’ Find out if a suspected assailant has a criminal history. Use the Internet to search for registered sex offenders. Make unannounced visits to check on the facility.

Children may keep abuse secret, especially if they’ve been victimized by a trusted adult. Ask questions about any changes you notice in your child’s behavior. Network with adults. Sharing information will increase awareness of what’s happening at school, on the team or at church. Most abuse situations occur in one-adult/one-child settings. If you reduce such situations, you’ll lower the risk of abuse. Talk openly with children. Good communication may decrease a child’s vulnerability to sexual abuse and increase the likelihood that the child will tell you if abuse has occurred. Teach kids not to give out personal information like an e-mail address, home address or phone number. For more safety tips on protecting children, visit my Web site.