Regional Child Protection Center
1215 Pleasant Street, Suite 303
Des Moines, IA 50309
515.241.4311
If you suspect a child is being physically or sexually abused or neglected, call the Department of Human Services - Child Abuse Hotline at 1.800.362.2178.
Reinforcement Materials
Parents are encouraged to review the Happy Bear material with their children. Before you begin, decide what you are going to use for reviewing the concepts, i.e.: a drawing, a doll or stuffed animal, the Happy Bear Coloring Book, a reading book, etc.
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Familiarize yourself with the material before you begin.
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Choose a time and place where you will all feel comfortable and won't be interrupted.
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Go at your child's pace and only as long as he or she appears interested.
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Talk to your child on a level he or she will understand, but be sure to use the correct anatomical names for body parts and their functions.
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Talk about the difference between good touch (like hugs and handshakes), bad touch (like kicking or punching) and mixed-up touch (sexual assault). Identify the child's private parts and talk about who can touch him or her there.
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As questions arise, take the time to answer them as honestly and completely as possible. This is your chance to clarify anything your child doesn't understand.
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Check your child's understanding of different terms. Establishing a "common" vocabulary is essential to communicating effectively.
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Ask your child what he or she would do in specific situations. Include some role playing situations to aid the learning experience. Remember that the emphasis should be on safety, not sex.
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Let your child know that his or her body belongs to him or her and that he or she has the right to say NO to ANYONE who wants to either inappropriately touch or be touched by the child.
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Encourage your child to tell you or another trusted adult if they experienced mixed-up touches. Make sure your child is aware that by telling a trusted adult about an uncomfortable experience, he or she won't be in trouble or punished in any way.
As a parent, your reinforcement of the concepts on a regular basis is vital to your child's understanding and belief in those concepts.