Ten tips to protect your child from sexual abuse

1 Teach children the name of their genitals in they same way they are taught their other body parts; that way, they can learn that even though their genitals are private, they are not too private so as not to be spoken about.

2 Teach your children that no one has the right to touch them; also, teach them the difference between a 'good touch' and a 'bad touch'.

3 Teach your children early and often that there should be no secrets between them and their parents. Make them feel comfortable about talking about anything with you, whether it's good or bad.

4 Beware of adults who offer your children special gifts or toys. Also, beware of adults who want to take your children on trips or outings.

5 Do not write your child's name prominently on clothes, school bags or any other piece of clothing which is clearly visible to everyone.

6 Make your children understand that a stranger is anyone he or she does not know well, even people they may recognise, like a postman or an ice cream vendor, is still a stranger. Help them to understand that someone can be a stranger even if they look nice or if they know the child's name.

7 As the child ages, create an environment where age-appropriate sexual topics can be discussed comfortably. Use news items and publicised reports of child abuse to start discussions about safety.

8 If your child tells you that he or she has been sexually abused, listen carefully and take the disclosure seriously.

9 Support your child and let them know that he or she is not responsible for the abuse.

10 If you have concerns that your child is a victim of abuse, talk to your child's paediatrician, a social worker or counsellor, or the police. These individuals can discuss your concerns and arrange for examination of the child.

Source: Office of the Children's Advocate