What precautions can I take to deter false accusations of child abuse or neglect against me?

"Your Role in Protecting Children Against Child Neglect and Abuse"

Since you work with children, you are vulnerable to charges of child abuse. You can protect yourself from false accusations by always being in view of others. If you need to speak alone with a child, move away from the ears of others but remain in their sight. Do not use private rooms with shut doors.

Supervise private activities in pairs. During swimming outings, residential camps, or overnight trips, situations will occur where participants need to change clothes, put on bathing suits, or shower. At these times, children should be supervised by more than one person who is the same gender as the children.

It is important to complete all appropriate incident report forms whenever accidents occur.

Children are naturally curious, but do not share personal dating or sexual experiences with them. Also do not ask youth personal questions regarding their dating or sexual experiences.

Do not force yourself on a child. As a volunteer you may be drawn to youth who are shy or discouraged. Support them in a way that respects their level of comfort with physical and emotional displays of affection.