Elementary Programs - No longer just "Stranger Danger"

First off, my name is Corrie Andrews and I am the volunteer coordinator at The Haven.  Aside from taking care of the volunteers, I am also in charge of outreaching to community in order to raise awareness the reality of domestic violence, sexual assault, and family violence in our community.  These subjects aren't fun, but they can be eliminated and understood more through community awareness and programs to educate the community. 

It is really important for The Haven to start at school level so that the students can be educated on all different levels.  SO here is what I am thinking for the younger elementary kids in order for them to learn not so much about the "STRANGER DANGER!" but more about what a good touch is and a bad touch is and how to interpret a confusing touch.

Good touch will make you feel:
- Good about who you are
-Affirmed
- Cared for
-Supported

Bad Touch will make you feel:
- Harmed
- Disregarded
- Pain
- In danger

Confusing Touch will make you feel:
- Confused
- Mixed up
-Uncomfortable

This program will go through all the different type of touches and have the students respond so they can identify what each touch is outside of school.  Also students will be taught that help will be given from teachers, counselors, parents, and trusted adults if the child needs to tell what has been happening to them is abuse is present. 

This seems simple enough but at a young age, it is difficult for a child to determine what is appropriate and what is not.  Approximately 80% of child abuse is perpetrated by a parent or caregiver.
That is a scary statistic that makes the programs so important to teach how to distinguish what type of touch the child receiving is as well as teaching that child how to report a touch that is bad or even confusing to them.  The Haven and me are really dedicated to helping the community out at all levels and not just after the incident happens. 

If anyone is interested in helping with impletmenting programs or would like more information on the specifics of this program please feel free to call me (Corrie) at 325-597-7644 or email me at: HavenVolunteer.Corrie@gmail.com!





The statistic is from this site:
http://childabuse.org/Page.aspx?pid=232