This workshop will build knowledge and skills in the identification of, and effective intervention with, children and youth who have been abused, or are at risk for abuse, and includes: defining abuse and identifying indicators, responding to suspicions and disclosures, the role of child protection and police in investigations, and legal and moral responsibilities. Most importantly, we tackle emotional issues and barriers around reporting, and strategies that assist people in overcoming their fears of reporting.

This workshop will explore the prevention messages that help to keep children and youth safe from harm, in both the real and virtual worlds. Participants will be updated on current trends in prevention and the mixed messages children sometimes receive. As well, practical safety tips will be shared including information on how to talk to kids about their bodies, healthy relationships and personal safety.

Technology has added a new dimension to the victimization of children and youth. It is important to understand the realities and misconceptions of Internet offending and offenders in order to help keep kids safer online. Topics include: how offenders engage children and youth, child sexual abuse images and the law, consent, investigations, and online safety from a developmental perspective.

This presentation is an opportunity to build knowledge of how children and youth are impacted by trauma, other adverse events, and challenges. Participants will learn how these may impact mental health, emotional stability, self-regulation, a healthy self-perspective and positive relationships with others. This trauma-informed perspective will include practical strategies for how to respond to children and youth in distress by helping them feel safe, understood and appreciated. How to recognize when further immediate intervention is needed will also be discussed.

Training provided by Boost Prevention Educators on implementing the PEP Talk prevention programs in your classroom or group.