Protecting Children
Useful Guides for Parents and Carers
Sometimes parents and carers may want further information about children's development, body safety, relationships, abuse or exploitation. The resources below are from organisations specialising in safeguarding and children's welfare and provide clear information, practical advice and guidance about where to seek further help.
Understanding Sexual Development in Children Aged 5–11
Stop It Now! – Understanding the Sexual Development of Children Aged 5–11
Children's curiosity about bodies and relationships can be a normal part of growing up, but it can sometimes be difficult for parents to know what is developmentally appropriate. This guide uses a helpful traffic-light system to explain behaviours that may be expected at this age, those that may require attention and those that may indicate a need for further support or professional advice. It also helps parents think about how to respond calmly and appropriately.
Talk PANTS – Helping Children Understand Body Safety
The NSPCC's Talk PANTS resources help parents talk to children about their bodies and personal safety in a simple, age-appropriate and reassuring way. Children learn that their body belongs to them, that private parts are private, that they have the right to say no, and that they should always tell a trusted adult if something makes them feel worried or uncomfortable. The page includes advice, activities and resources that families can use together.
Understanding the Different Types of Child Abuse
This NSPCC resource provides clear information about the different ways in which children can experience abuse or harm. It covers areas including neglect, physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, online abuse, domestic abuse, bullying, exploitation and other safeguarding concerns. Parents can find information about possible signs to look out for, how different forms of abuse may affect children and what to do if they are worried about a child.
Understanding Grooming
Grooming can take place online or in person and may not always be obvious to children or the adults around them. This NSPCC guidance explains what grooming is, how someone may build a relationship with a child in order to manipulate or exploit them, and some of the warning signs parents and carers should be aware of. It also provides advice about what to do and where to seek help if you have concerns.
Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE)
NSPCC – Child Sexual Exploitation
Child sexual exploitation is a form of child sexual abuse. This resource helps parents understand what CSE is, how children can be manipulated, coerced or exploited and the signs that might indicate a child is at risk. Importantly, it explains that children may not always recognise that what is happening to them is abusive. The page also provides guidance about reporting concerns and accessing support.
Supporting a Family Affected by Child Sexual Exploitation
Keeping it Together – A Parent's Guide to Coping with Child Sexual Exploitation
This resource is specifically designed to support parents and carers whose child may be experiencing, or has experienced, sexual exploitation. It considers not only how to support the child but also the significant emotional impact that exploitation can have on parents and the wider family. It provides practical guidance about seeking help, coping with difficult situations, managing family life and accessing further support.
Understanding Children's Rights
UNICEF – Summary of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) sets out the rights that all children should have. This summary helps parents understand children's rights in areas including safety, education, health, privacy, having their views heard and being protected from abuse, neglect and exploitation. It is a useful introduction to the rights-based principles that underpin safeguarding and children's wellbeing.
Exploring Children's Rights Together
Save the Children – Children's Guide to the Rights of the Child
This guide explains children's rights in accessible, child-friendly language, making it a useful resource for parents and children to explore together. It can help start conversations about children's rights to be safe, healthy, listened to, educated, respected and protected from harm and exploitation.
If You Are Worried About a Child
These resources are intended to provide information and support, but they should never delay seeking help where there is a safeguarding concern. If you are worried about the safety or welfare of a child, please contact the school or the appropriate safeguarding service. If you believe that a child is in immediate danger, call 999.