Hot Chocolate Talk® Campaign

Little Moments Can Make a Big Difference

If you’re like many parents, you may know it’s important to talk with your child about sexual abuse but aren’t sure what to say or when to say it. Our How-To Guide makes it easy to approach these vital safety conversations so you can empower your child to report and refuse sexual abuse:

  • Connect and build trust in everyday moments
  • Teach your child simple, age-appropriate body safety rules
  • Create warmth and comfort when talking about a serious topic

What to Say at Every Age

Our experts have packed decades of research into easy-to-use guides to help you begin these crucial conversations with your child every day—at any age, from toddler to teen.

It’s Never Too Early or Too Late

Child sexual abuse happens—more than you think. But, research shows there’s something simple and powerful you can do right now that goes a long way to protect your child: talk with them.

Informed children are less likely to be abused, and those who feel comfortable talking openly with a caring adult are more likely to disclose abuse if it happens.1

Anytime is the right time to talk with your child, and you can start today. So, grab a cup of hot chocolate, download our How-To Guide, and have a Hot Chocolate Talk® moment.

1. Finkelhor, D., & Dziuba-Leatherman, J. (1995). Victimization prevention programs: A national survey of children’s exposure and reactions. Child Abuse & Neglect, 19(2), 129–139. https://doi.org/10.1016/0145-2134(94)00111-7

Have a Hot Chocolate Talk® Moment

How to Start the Conversation


“When parents communicate early and often, they create environments where kids feel comfortable asking questions and having difficult conversations, like disclosing abuse.”

Dr. Tia Kim
VP of Education, Research & Impact
Committee for Children

Know the Signs

Education Is Key to Prevention

Child sexual abuse happens when adults or older kids coerce a child into any activity for the sexual gratification of the older person. You can help prevent it by educating yourself and your child through open, honest, ongoing communication.

Signs of Abuse

Learn which physical and behavioral changes might be indicators of abuse.

Offender Behavior

Understand that most abusers are not strangers to their victims.

Why Kids Don’t Tell

Learn about common reasons why kids hide abuse and how you can help.

Get the Facts

Did you know that it’s statistically likely you’ve met a child who has been sexually abused by someone they know? The statistics may be scary, but personal safety talks don’t have to be.

Download Stats

What to Do If the Unthinkable Happens

Stay calm. Believe your child. Say: “It’s not your fault.”

What to Do and Say Right Away


Cellphone Icon

Childhelp
Visit Site | 800-422-4453

Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network
Visit Site | 800-656-4673

National Sexual Violence Resource Center
Visit Site | 877-739-3895

National Human Trafficking Hotline
888-373-7888 | or text HELP to 233733

Additional Resources

Learn More to Protect All Kids

Just for
Educators

Learn how to work with families to prevent child sexual abuse.
Learn More

Keep
Kids Safe

Dig deeper into related resources about child abuse prevention.
Learn More

Hear from
Our Experts

Read blog posts about our holistic approach to child protection.
Learn More

What the
Research Says

Browse studies and reports that inform our work.
Learn More
“The Hot Chocolate Talk How-To Guide helps take the guesswork out of knowing what to say and when to say it.”

Dr. Tia Kim
VP of Education, Research & Impact
Committee for Children