Preventing Abuse

Contact Stacey Jensen at stacey@cornerhousemn.org or 763-439-5837 to get started and book a date.

We will provide a kit with materials and language to help you invite guests to your workshop!

Our Body Safety Workshop is meant for anyone who has children in their lives. That could mean parents, caregivers, relatives, coaches, teachers, early childcare professionals, medical professionals, or more! Everyone is responsible for protecting the kids in their lives.

The strategies and messages provided in the workshop are applicable for children of all ages.

This workshop is designed for adults to equip them with the strategies and messages to implement with their kids. We are exploring opportunities to provide this training specifically for children - stay tuned!

We’ll work with you, as the host, to determine a location that suits you and your guests. We can present in person or virtually.

Yes - at the end of the workshop, you’ll have access to our guidebook, safety kit, and safety quiz. We’ll also provide you with a way to contact a CornerHouse advocate if you have concerns about a specific child or situation in your life.

The $500 cost of the training can be for 2 people or for 200 people. The size of the group is up to you.

Many parents think their kids are too young to understand or are uncomfortable setting these boundaries. However, your message can be very simple and your young child will only be uncomfortable if you are. These messages could come at bath time, when your child first learns or asks for the names of body parts, or when discussing other kinds of safety. If it doesn’t go well at first, that’s okay. Just try again later. One respectful way to start this process early is while diapering your baby or toddler. Tell your child, “I’m going to wipe your vagina and butt now, and then I’ll put on a clean diaper.”

Ask permission before giving your child a kiss or a hug and respect their response. Never require your child to kiss or hug relatives or others; it’s enough to be polite by saying goodbye with words, a handshake, or a high-five. When children see that you respect their personal space, they will be more likely to speak up if another adult does not. Try giving your child some options. For example, “Jane, it’s time to say goodbye to Grandpa. Can you please give him a hug or a wave goodbye?” Be prepared to defend your child’s choice if a family member is persistent for a hug.

When you approach these topic with openness, kids are more likely to come to you with questions or worries when they arise.

* Know what sites your child is visiting and with whom your child is communicating online.

* Monitor the time spent online and instruct your child about the possible dangers of giving out personal information online.

* Put the computer in a central location so usage can be easily monitored.

This includes daycare, summer camp, faith programs, and babysitters. The care provider you choose should have procedures in place for reporting abuse, background and reference checks, safe pick-up procedures, and ensuring a safe environment while caring for your child. If your child doesn’t like the provider/program, don’t assume your child is being difficult. Instead, talk with your child about what they don’t like.

When you see a behavior change or concern, talk to your child about what is going on. Let your child know that if someone is hurting them or making them feel uncomfortable it’s not their fault, you will help, and they won’t be in trouble with you.

If you or your child gets an “uh-oh” feeling from a care provider, another parent, family member, or trusted adult, don’t be afraid to make changes in your behavior or routine to feel more secure about your child’s safety. Teach your child to trust their own feelings by encouraging them to trust their gut and to talk to you if they are ever worried about something.