How to report suspected sexual abuse or sexual violence against a child

Hana Khalyleh and Terry DeMio, Cincinnati Enquirer
·3 min read

If you suspect child abuse of any kind, you can report it in Ohio by contacting 855-642-4453. It’s an automated telephone directory that will link callers directly to the public children's services agency or law enforcement office in each county. Reports can be anonymous.

Child sexual assault and abuse:They're more common than Ohioans may think

The investigating agency will work with whatever level of information you are able to provide, but the following information is helpful.

  • The name and address of the child you suspect is being abused or neglected.

  • The age of the child.

  • The name and address of the parents or caretakers.

  • The name of the person you suspect is abusing or neglecting the child and their address, if available.

  • The reason you suspect the child is being abused and neglected.

  • Any other information which may be helpful to the investigation.

Remember: While you have the option of reporting anonymously, giving your name can help the investigator clarify information. The agency will not give your name to the person suspected of abusing the child.

Source: Ohio Department of Job and Family Services

What are some signs that my child may have been sexually abused or assaulted?

Behavior changes can signal abuse. Be aware of these:

  • New fears of people or places.

  • Withdrawal from friends, family or usual activities.

  • Regression or baby-like behavior.

  • Sleep disturbances including nightmares.

  • Sexual play beyond what would be considered normal for the child’s age.

Most important: Have a relationship with your child that allows them to talk to you about anything. Be sure to ask questions if you’re concerned.

Sources: Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Mayerson Center for Safe and Healthy Children

How can I help keep my child safe from sexual abuse or assault?

As soon as the child has verbal skills, start talking about private body parts, proper and improper touching.

Teach your child it is OK to say no emphatically. Practice both verbal and nonverbal ways of saying no. (Examples include using a serious tone of voice.)

Ask the child questions to help prepare for potential situations, such as:

  • What do you do if someone tries to touch you in a way that makes you uncomfortable?

  • What if someone you know pretends to touch you by accident?

  • What if you were in bed at night and someone in your house came into your room and touched your private parts and told you never to tell?

Talk to children about how to get away if someone won’t stop when they say no. Teach them that they can yell, fight or make a scene to get away from danger.

Reassure them that they can always tell you things they’ve done or that have happened to them - and that you will love them no matter what.

Teach your child that sometimes people abuse kids even if you try to stop them and it is not their fault.

Tell them that no one should ever ask them to keep a secret about touching from their parents or caregivers.

Sources: Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Mayerson Center for Safe and Healthy Children

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: How to report suspected sexual abuse, sexual violence against a child