Our world is changing and not always for the better. In light of the Penn State scandal and the disappearance of two young girls this past summer in our very own community, it’s imperative that we teach our children personal protection strategies to help them stay safe. Statistics tell us that one out of every 4 girls and one out of every 5 boys will be sexually abused before they reach the age of eighteen. The effects of child sexual abuse are far reaching. Family and Children’s Council of Black Hawk County uses funding from the Cedar Valley United Way for its “Take Charge of Your Body” school based sexual abuse prevention program.
Last year we presented this program to over 6,000 students in Black Hawk County. This program has protected thousands of children throughout the years and has helped them stay safe from bad and confusing touch. The “Take Charge of Your Body” curriculum is an essential learning piece for students in the Cedar Valley. We provide important information at each grade level to develop awareness and keep kids safe. Students are proud to know and use their personal safety plans. The “Take Charge of Your Body” program would not be possible without the generous support of our community and Cedar Valley United Way.
Every child deserves a safe and happy childhood, a childhood that doesn’t include sexual abuse.
TCOYB teaches children how to distinguish between positive, healthy touching and inappropriate, unwanted touching.
This curriculum is presented to children in an age-appropriate manner by trained professionals and volunteers Children learn their personal safety plan. NO, GO, TELL
NO Say “NO” to unwanted touches
GO Get away as soon as you can
TELL Tell an adult you trust and keep telling until it stops
