The holiday season is a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration – a time when families come together to create cherished memories. However, it's also crucial to acknowledge that the holiday season can bring about increased risks for child abuse. As your Navajo County Attorney, I am deeply committed to child advocacy. I am dedicated to providing you with essential insights and actionable steps to ensure a safe and joyful holiday season for our children.

Open Communication. Establish and maintain open lines of communication with your children. Encourage them to share their thoughts, feelings and experiences, and let them know that you are always there to listen and support them. Create an environment where they feel comfortable discussing any concerns they may have, no matter how small.

Set Boundaries and Educate. Talk to your children about personal boundaries and appropriate touch. Teach them that their bodies are their own and that they have the right to say no if they feel uncomfortable. Empower them with the knowledge that they can speak up if someone violates their boundaries, even if it's someone they know.

Supervision and Monitoring. During holiday gatherings and events, ensure that children are supervised at all times. If they are participating in activities or spending time with others, periodically check in on them to ensure their well-being. Stay attuned to any changes in their behavior or demeanor, which may indicate distress.

Safe Adults and Trusted Contacts: Help your children identify safe adults they can turn to for help, such as parents, grandparents, teachers and other trusted individuals. Discuss the concept of "stranger danger" and teach them to be cautious around unfamiliar adults, even in social settings.

Stay Informed and Aware: Educate yourself about the signs of potential abuse and grooming behaviors. Pay attention to any red flags, such as a sudden change in behavior, withdrawal or unexplained physical injuries. Trust your instincts – if something seems amiss, take action and seek assistance.

As we embark on the holiday season, let us prioritize the safety and well-being of our children above all else. By implementing these five proactive steps, we can create a protective shield around our children, ensuring they have a safe and joyful holiday experience. Together, we can make this holiday season one of love, happiness, and safety for all children.

Brad Carlyon

Navajo County Attorney

On behalf of the Navajo County Family Advocacy Center