What to Do 

• Remain calm 
• Be supportive
• Provide a safe environment 
• Reassure the child that this is NOT their fault and they did NOTHING to cause this to happen 
• Avoid asking details or interrogate them about the abuse 
• Reassure the child that they are safe now 
• Reassure the child that they will not get in any trouble for disclosing the abuse

What NOT to DO

• Try NOT to panic or become angry
• Do NOT blame the child 
• Do NOT ask the child detailed questions about the abuse. Allow law enforcement, DHR, and the CAC handle the investigation.
• Do NOT make the child confront the offender
• DO NOT make the child tell other family members/friends about the abuse