While there is no guarantee that our children will stay safe from all forms of exploitation and abuse, the more we talk about issues around consent, their rights, what exploitation and human trafficking look like, and how they can get help, the better chance we have to reduce the likelihood of this form of abuse. Having open and ongoing conversation with your child will increase their sense of self esteem and empower them with the knowledge that you are by their side to help, no matter what.

Children often blame themselves when something happens. By talking early and often with your children about these important topics, you will help them understand that if someone exploits or abuses them or violates their rights, it is never their fault. Think of these conversations as emotional booster shots against the disease of human trafficking!

How many times have you googled stuff like “is this normal when…” or “what do I do if…”? Well, children should not learn about issues of human trafficking or sexual exploitation from a random google search. That is why we created this guide. We are empowering you to be the one who talks to your children first about a serious topic.

Isn’t talking to an 8-year-old about human trafficking a bit too young? We completely understand why that might seem this way.

This guide is intended to support YOU in your journey as a caregiver, as you speak to your child about human trafficking.

To best prepare you, we have included:

• A basic overview of human trafficking
• Tips on preparing yourself to hold this conversation with your child
• Effective communication tips on having emotional conversations with your child
• Six short guided discussions that will be used to help your child understand the different forms of human trafficking
• Terms, facts, and resources
• Where you can turn to for help after the conversation

The good news is that, if you are reading this guide, you are an engaged, smart, and forward-thinking caregiver. Your children will be much safer because they are being taught the best ways to stay safe from human trafficking. Thank you for joining us as we strive to create a world where all children are free to be the amazing little people they deserve to be. 

Please take advantage of our resources and reach out to us if you have questions or want to learn more. We can be reached by email at prevention@freedom-forward.org. Together, we can keep kids safe from human trafficking.

Let’s get started!

Andrea, Alia, and the Freedom Forward Team

Creators and curators of WePreventTrafficking.com