Prevention and education

The McMahon/Ryan Child Advocacy Center is an organization committed to increasing the level of discussion and recognition of the issue of child abuse in our community. We can provide resources and training for your community group, on how to spot and respond to suspected child abuse. You can help us achieve our mission of eliminating child abuse through intervention and education.  Find out more by contacting us at 315-701-2985.

Silenced childHow to talk to your children about preventing abuse

Our children need to know what constitutes child abuse, that it’s not their fault, and what they should do if they or someone they know is subjected to abuse. That education starts at home.

Educate everyone in the family about child abuse:

  • Definitions
  • Signs and Symptoms
  • Facts and Statistics

When talking to your children about preventing abuse:

  • Create a safe environment to talk openly and allow your kids to ask questions
  • Emphasize to your children that:
    • No one has the right to touch their private parts (unless for medical reasons)
    • If someone touches them and they feel uncomfortable they can say "No" and to tell an adult they trust (i.e hug, rubbing back)
    • It is NEVER the child’s fault, they did not do anything wrong
    • Adults and children should never ask children to keep secrets.  If they do let them know they should tell an adult they trust and they will not get in trouble
  • Make a list of trusted adults your children can tell if something does happen or if they have questions
  • Make a plan for emergencies
    • Make a list of the only people who would pick your child up in an emergency
    • Create a password that your family will use if someone needs to pick up your child, if they don’t know the password don’t go with them!

High 5! program

High Five! is a unique, five week child abuse prevention program.  This program is specifically designed to meet the needs of children in grades K-2, and we offer it to schools in Onondaga County.  In addition to working with the students on self-esteem and safety skills, High Five! works alongside teachers, school professionals, and parents to offer a comprehensive program and empower the community to prevent child abuse.  If you are interested in additional information about how you or your school can participate in High Five!, please contact mcmahonryan@mcmahonryan.org.

Internet Safety

Websites for keeping both you and your children safe on the Internet: