20. More On Keeping Kids Safe

The latest episode of Oh, Crap! is a follow-up to Jamie’s earlier installment on keeping kids safe (see episode 15!). Many listeners wanted to know how to most effectively speak to their children about sexual abuse and what precautions should be taken. Jamie doesn’t want to set off anybody’s anxiety, but these are important subjects we need to know inside and out so our kids can be safe out in the world. In this episode, Jamie discusses how to set boundaries with friends and family (and what reactions you should be on the alert for), explains which odd behaviors may be signs of sexual abuse, and wades through the turbulent waters of childhood slumber parties. The Finer Details of This Episode: Why it’s so vital you find a way to heal if you’re a parent who has survived sexual abuse in their past. The reason you should be forthright with your children (at a certain age) and not sugarcoat some of the world’s dangers. How to navigate the tricky space of dealing with an inappropriate—or even potentially inappropriate—family member. Why the very act of setting boundaries is key to figuring out who are the healthy and unhealthy relations in your life. Your kid shouldn’t have to go to sleepovers, especially if you feel uneasy about who will be there. Asking the difficult questions, such as “Will there be drinking?” and “Are there freaking guns here?” Take note that abusive individuals will seek out roles and employment that will allow them to exploit their power over others. Why your kids may be at greater risk if you’re a single parent. Don’t let your denial that the worst could possibly happen lead to your child ending up in a threatening situation. How to look for signs of abuse in your children or other children. Quotes: “We have to name the boogeyman. We have to look the boogeyman right in the eye to disarm him.” “You have to be willing to piss people off rather than jeopardize or compromise your child.” “Healthy people respect boundaries; unhealthy people push back on them.” Links: Jamie’s homepage - http://www.jamieglowacki.com/  Oh Crap! Potty Training - https://www.amazon.com/Crap-Potty-Training-Everything-Parenting-ebook/dp/B00V3L8YSU Oh Crap! I Have A Toddler [Get my new book] -  https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Oh-Crap!-I-Have-a-Toddler/Jamie-Glowacki/Oh-Crap-Parenting/9781982109738 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices