OzMom

As a parent of young children, I am always making sure they are physically,  mentally and emotionally safe. The thought of my children facing any harm is unbearable. Yet, the reality is that child sexual abuse is a deeply troubling issue that many families confront, often in silence. This is a conversation that needs to be had, and it starts with us—parents, caregivers, and community members.

Why Awareness Matters

When I first became a parent, I was overwhelmed by the responsibilities. We prepare for sleepless nights, tantrums, and scraped knees, but nothing quite prepares you for the responsibility of safeguarding your child against dangers that aren't as visible. Child sexual abuse is a topic that no one wants to talk about, yet it's one of the most important conversations we need to have. As a CSA survivor, I am very aware of the negative consequences of not being aware as a kid. Things like these happen when you are least expecting them,  and it is very important for us and our little ones to know everything about their safety and identify when something or someone isn't safe. 

Raising awareness is the first step in protecting our children. It’s about knowing the signs, understanding the risks, and most importantly, teaching our children the skills they need to protect themselves. This isn’t just about keeping our kids physically safe; it’s about empowering them with the knowledge and confidence to speak up if something doesn’t feel right.

 Learning the Right Skills

As I navigated my own parenting journey, I realised how critical it is to educate ourselves and our children about body safety. Simple lessons about boundaries, understanding the difference between safe and unsafe touch, and encouraging open communication can make all the difference. 

There were moments when I felt unsure about how to approach these conversations with my kids. How do you talk about something so serious without scaring them? What age do you start talking about it? How do you empower them without overwhelming them? What I learned is that it’s okay to seek help—whether it’s from educational resources, support groups, or organisations dedicated to child protection.

One organisation that stands out in this mission is Bravehearts. Their work in educating and supporting families is invaluable, and they provide parents with the tools needed to protect their children from sexual harm. Through their programs, I found guidance and the confidence to have those tough conversations with my kids.

Joining the Cause

As a community, we can make a difference. But we need to do it together. I’m passionate about this cause because I know how crucial it is for every child to feel safe and secure. Bravehearts has been a lifeline for many families, and they continue to do incredible work in raising awareness and providing support.

I’m asking you to join me in supporting Bravehearts. Your contribution, no matter how small, can help them continue their mission to protect Australian children from sexual abuse. Together, we can create a safer world for our kids—one where they can grow up with confidence, knowing their voices matter.

Please consider making a donation to Bravehearts via my page. Every dollar counts in the fight to protect our children. Let’s make sure every child has the chance to live free from fear.