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As parents or teachers, we do all that we can to keep our children safe. We teach them to look both ways before crossing the street, we make sure they are wearing a helmet before riding their bike and we have provided hours of education and practice before handing them the keys to the car. Yet when it comes to teaching our children about sexual abuse, many parents don't know where to begin; if abuse has occurred, they are even more lost.

WIth children, reading a book together can help open the lines of communication and facilitate what may be the most important conversation a parent has with their child. In reading Sad, Scared, Confused, children will learn to recognize sexual abuse. If they find themselves in a similar situation, they are more likely to identify it as sexual abuse and respond in a way to keep themselves safe.

If you suspect or are aware that abuse has occurred, reading Sad, Scared, Confused with your child can be a significant step towards healing and recovery. They will learn that, like Alex, they are not alone, they did nothing wrong and that it was not their fault. They also will find encouragement in knowing that sharing their experience, as scary as it may seem, will make them feel brave, safe and loved.

Although sexual abuse can be devastating, children can recover and go on to live healthy lives. They can learn how to trust and form healthy relationships as adults without the cloud of sadness, fear and confusion of abuse following them. For our children's sake, it is time to begin the conversation.