This lesson reviews the steps for responding to sexual behavior challenges that occur within a child care program. It is also important to consider how to respond to reports of sexual behavior challenges. Read the case study about Daniel and Brianna, then brainstorm how you will respond to this report of a sexual behavior challenge. Discuss your plans with a coach, trainer, or administrator.

Daniel is an 11-year-old who attends a school-age program. He is an outgoing, humorous, and popular child. Daniel enjoys being the center of attention and seems to enjoy being a leader. Brianna is 12 years old, attends the same school as Daniel, and has been in the school-age program for several years. Daniel and Brianna seem to have the same group of friends. Staff have noticed that Brianna has not been her usual, outgoing self lately. They initially think this is likely due to typical pre-teen changes.

Many of the older children in the program have their own cell phones. They are to keep their phones in their backpacks during program time, but the children text each other when they’re at home and on the bus. Also, Brianna and Daniels’ school has a slightly different policy on cell phones and allows students to use them during certain school activities. Mark, father to Brianna, asked to speak with the program administrator. Mark reported that he recently learned that about a month ago, Brianna received pictures from Daniel via text of his exposed genitals. Daniel has also asked Brianna over text to send him pictures of herself. Mark shared that Brianna says Daniel will “flash” her, or expose his private parts in person. Per Brianna, this has occurred several times while they are in the program. Mark is upset because Brianna, who has always loved school and being with friends, has begun to make excuses about being sick so she doesn’t have to go to school and the program. Mark is worried that his daughter is depressed.

Responding to Reports of Sexual Behavior Challenges

The steps to respond will be different for reports of sexual behavior challenges and will depend on your program’s policies and procedures. In the case study above, think about what the administrator should say during the conversation with Mark and what steps may occur after the conversation. Brainstorm your ideas with a coach, trainer, or administrator.

During report and conversation:
  • Empathize with the person making the report but don’t make assumptions or promises.
  • Document a detailed account of what has potentially happened. You should document who is involved, where the event happened, the date, and any other relevant details.
  • Share resources with Mark in case Brianna and the family need support.
  • Make a plan to follow-up with the family to see if additional support is necessary.
After report and conversation:
  • Check your program’s policies for procedures involving sexual behavior, challenging behavior, abuse, bullying, or any other relevant concerns.
  • 仔细地遵循这些程序。如果一些thing is unclear, reach out to your administrator for guidance.
  • Prepare for all children involved (if there is more than one) to continue to attend the program. Even if you are referring to another agency or specialist, you need to be prepared to support the children involved. Supervision is key, and you may need to provide additional staff until a more concrete plan is in place.