Sexting—sending sexually explicit messages, photos, or videos—has become common among teens. While some teens may choose to sext, many feel pressured or coerced into doing so. This is a serious issue that can have emotional and psychological effects.

Sexual violence is a devastating and critical issue that affects millions of young people, yet it often remains unspoken and hidden from view. The statistics are shocking and reflect the dire reality many youth face:

• 1 in 9 girls and 1 in 20 boys under the age of 18 report experiencing sexual abuse or assault—according to RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network).

• 82% of all victims under 18 are female—according to RAINN.

• 1 in 12 teenage children experience sexual dating violence, as revealed by the 2019 CDC Youth Risk Survey.

• A startling 20% increase since 2017 shows that 1 in 5 teen girls experienced sexual violence in the past year, according to the same survey.

Keeping Kids Safe from Sexual Abuse During the Holidays: 5 Essential Tips

The holiday season is a time of family gatherings, celebrations, and travel. However, it’s important to remember that these environments, while joyous, can also present unique challenges when it comes to ensuring the safety of children. During the holidays, children may be around extended family members or friends they don’t often see, making it critical to remain vigilant about their safety—particularly when it comes to preventing sexual abuse.

Here are five tips to help keep kids safe from sexual abuse around the holidays:

Youth suicide is a devastating reality that affects countless families, schools, and communities across the nation. It’s the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10-24, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In Indiana alone, thousands of young people struggle with thoughts of suicide each year. The pain and loss caused by suicide are immeasurable, but one thing is clear: suicide is preventable.

Youth suicide is a devastating reality that affects countless families, schools, and communities across the nation. It’s the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10-24, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In Indiana alone, thousands of young people struggle with thoughts of suicide each year. The pain and loss caused by suicide are immeasurable, but one thing is clear: suicide is preventable.

It’s back to school time in Indiana…

As parents, we know how to keep our kids safe in the real world…

Discover the impactful story of Maggie Ioannacci, recognized as the 2024 Chaucie's Champion for her exceptional dedication to prevention education. As the Director of Student Services for Zionsville Community School Corporation, Maggie has spearheaded initiatives to promote child safety and mental health awareness within school communities.

In a world where child safety is paramount, recent news from Greenfield highlights the unsettling reality that child abuse can happen anywhere, even within the seemingly secure confines of after-school programs. At the Indiana Center for Prevention of Youth Abuse & Suicide (ICPYAS), we recognize the urgency of addressing these issues through our comprehensive prevention education programs.

Talking to kids about body safety doesn’t have to be scary! 

Does self care sometimes just feel like one more thing on your to-do list?

Youth suicide rates have been rising for the past two decades.

Believe it or not, it is back to school time! Here in central Indiana, we have schools resuming as early as next week! As much as we all love summer, there is something about starting school that brings everyone excitement.

Sometimes – despite our best intentions and efforts – bad things happen to children…

Sometimes – despite our best intentions and efforts – bad things happen to children…