If your child, or another child, discloses abuse to you, it is important to listen carefully and control your reactions. Don't correct the language they are using, let the child describe freely what happened.

• Believe the child and pay particular attention to them. Even if something sounds strange.
• It is important to stay neutral, as the child has a special relationship with the perpetrator and may be afraid to speak out, so as not to put him or her in danger.
• Avoid any phrases that might make the child think you are being critical (e.g., “Why didn't you say no?”, “Why didn't you speak out sooner?”, “Why did you accept his gift?” etc.).
• Try as best as you can to put yourself in the child's shoes, bearing in mind their stage of development. This will allow you to respond accordingly.
• Listen to the child and talk as little as possible. When you do choose to talk, express yourself in a supportive and reassuring way, rather than asking questions.
• Don’t make any assumptions on whether or not abuse has taken place, so as not to subject the child to your own thoughts.
• Ask specific questions, and only if necessary, to help the child talk (e.g. “Did he or she touch you in a place you didn't like/that is forbidden or that made you feel uncomfortable?”, “Did someone ask you to keep a secret?”).
• If the child becomes emotionally overwhelmed, give them time and let them continue when they are ready.
• Avoid making promises you cannot keep (e.g. “I will not tell anyone”, “you will never see the abuser again”, etc.) and report the incident immediately to the nearest Police Station.