Policies and practices that prioritize the protection of children and the prevention of child sexual abuse and exploitation are essential to child health, safety, and well-being.
Policies and practices at all levels of the socio-ecological model must elevate the value of children and focus on ending the demand of children as sexual commodities, must address abuse/exploitation online and off, and must address harmful sexual behaviors by and between youth and by adults.
Policies and practices are most impactful when they are centered on child safety and primary prevention, directed to both adults and institutions, as well as children, evidence-informed, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and created with an intersectional lens to adapt and address the needs of marginalized and underrepresented groups.
Identify and advance policies and practices that promote safe, stable, nurturing relationships for children in their homes and within broader environments to decrease risk of sexual abuse.
Advocate for policies that support efforts to prevent the initial perpetration of child sexual abuse and exploitation, to end the demand for children as sexual commodities, and that provide intervention and treatment for individuals at risk to perpetrate sexual abuse, including children and youth with problematic sexual behaviors.
Support policies for sustainable funding and standardized requirements for evidence-informed, quality prevention education that includes strategies that reinforce healthy development, behaviors, images, messages, relationships, and sexuality, and that are adaptable to the needs of local communities.
Promote policies that require schools and all types of youth-serving organizations to actively implement quality, comprehensive, evidence-informed policies, practices, and child sexual abuse and exploitation prevention initiatives.
SUPPORT
This website addresses child sexual abuse and exploitation which are difficult topics for many people. If you find yourself in need of support, please view our member directory to access help and resources.
