The last thing any of us ever expects to see is a child displaying inappropriate sexual behavior. Both parents and child care staff can be stunned and even baffled about what to do. There is very little written on policies in child care programs about handling situations that go beyond normal exploration or sexual play.

Child care programs need to determine for themselves if this issue should be included in their policy and procedure handbook. There are certain actions that programs can do to help staff learn effective ways of handling inappropriate sexual behavior:

1. Use discretion in handling these situations. Rather than call attention to the child act swiftly to re-direct the child.

2. Approach the child in a way that does not traumatize, label, or stigmatize him in any way. State quietly, but firmly, "that is something we don't do in public," or simply "please come here I need to speak to you." A calm, but firm statement may help to redirect the child's behavior.

3. Child care staff must work diligently to protect the other children from over exposure. (i.e., constant supervision)

Inappropriate Behaviors

Some providers express concern about knowing what is normal exploration and what borders on inappropriate sexual behavior.

Consider these 'red flags':

when a child displays behaviors or sexual knowledge that is beyond their chronological age. (i.e., specific references to adult-like features and behaviors, mimicking sexual acts).

A sudden change in the child's behavior, (i.e., becoming clingy, withdrawn, or uncharacteristically over active).

The combination of these signs, not just one in isolation.

For more subtle behaviors you may need to consider frequency, intensity, repetitiveness, sexual acting out provoked by anxiety or stress, etc.

If you are not sure or need further clarification:

1. Consult with your Center's Director and/or nurse consultant to consult with the family when deemed necessary or

2. Call the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (IDCFS) for a "screening". This consists of simply explaining the behavior you observed, how often, and what concerns you.

The provider who observes the behavior and suspects abuse is the one required by law to report it to IDCFS. You must follow your Center's protocol, but the bottom line is that you are the mandated reporter with legal responsibilities to report any suspicion of abuse.

Prepared by: Giesela Grumbach, Family Life Educator, Matteson Center, and Patti Faughn, Family Life Educator, Springfield Center, 2006