Connections, A Center for Healthy Families offers different training and education opportunities for organizations, schools, and the public.

here are some statements and guidelines for How to help a child heal after abuse or trauma:

"I am so proud of you for telling me what happened. That was a brave thing to do." 
"I am so sorry this happened to you."
"I believe you."
"I am upset too, but not at you."
"I am angry with the person who did this."
"You are not to blame for anything.  You did nothing wrong."
"What are you most worried about right now?"

OTHER GUIDELINES TO BENEFIT YOUR CHILD:

*Do not repeatedly approach the topic, it may cause your child to shut down.
*Treat this trauma as you would any other.
*Protect your child by minimizing your personal circle of support.
*Follow the recommendations from your law enforcement or child protection agencies.
*Don't talk about the incident if your child can hear you. 
*Let your child know its ok to be angry or sad.
*See that your child receives therapy.
*Teach your child safe body boundaries and safety rules.
*Never coach a child on what to say or how to act regarding their incident.
*Have no contact with the suspect.
*Expect and understand you will experience out of the ordinary requests.
*Make only promises you can keep.
*Allow plenty of time for your child to express emotion though creative play or activities.

Trainings:

Darkness to Light: Stewards of Children

Darkness to Light Supplemental trainings include:

• Bystanders Protecting Children from Boundary and Sexual Violations
• Child Sexual Abuse and the Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children
• Talking with Children about Safety from Sexual Abuse
• Reporting Child Sexual Abuse
• Mandated Reporting
• Introducing Darkness to Light

QPR Institute: Suicide Prevention

For more information or to schedule a training call:  360.249.0005