Avoiding Sexual Dangers: A Parent's Guide to Protecting Your Child Paperback – November 1, 2011

I can't say enough about how much I appreciated this book. We moved into a new house a year ago and my six year old had a much older neighbor kid who was always hanging around him. I felt uneasy about it, and I tried to get some ideas online of what to watch out for. I didn't find very specific information, but somehow I came across this book. It's thorough and specific - to the point of being disturbing, which will hopefully motivate parents to watch out for their kids. This book lists red flags to watch out for, specifically in older kids. Our neighbor kid's behavior fit with many of the warning signs, and so we've taken steps to keep our son away from him. I'm so thankful I found this. It helped me realize my concerns were founded.

Don't be put off by the subject of this book! You'll find it empowering to have an increased awareness about how to protect and educate your children from potential abuse.I found the material about internet safety particularly helpful. It is packed full of practical information and tips. I've often felt like I'm in over my head when trying to protect my 11 year-old online, and now I feel completely equipped to take measures to protect him.I especially appreciate the checklists at the end of each chapter that summarize each section and give you clear guidelines for assessing and dealing with any situation; whether you're concerned that your child is being abused, is abusing others, or if you're simply trying to put preventative measures in place to protect your child from abuse.

This book offers loads of tips for parents who want to learn more about their children's developing sexuality while ensuring they don't become unwitting victims of sexual abuse. Dr. Medlin and Dr. Knauts share reasons for mounting concern about sexual abuse in today's society, using real scenarios drawn from their own experience in clinical practice to highlight the ways in which children are exposed to sexual dangers. The book's greatest strength, however, is its practical, non-alarmist advice that parents can immediately use to take action or set their minds at ease. Parents will find a range of strategies for protecting their children, as well as many resources to call upon if they determine there is reason for concern.

Reading this book was one of the most important things I have done for my child's well being. Filled with actionable advice and concrete steps parents can take to protect their children, it contains checklists that help you identify red flags, examples of normal and cautionary behavior and concrete steps a parent can take to protect their kid, as well as promote healthy sexual development. Packed with tips and web resources, the book tells you how to protect them from hidden dangers at daycare, at school and with sitters and even helps you safely navigate the internet, cell phones and social networking sites.