Every child deserves a safe, supportive environment to grow and thrive. At the Sewickley Valley YMCA, keeping kids safe is a year-round priority—and this April, we’re taking part in Five Days of Action®, a national campaign to raise awareness about child sexual abuse and equip adults to prevent it.
You don’t need to be an expert to protect kids. You just need to take three simple steps: 1) Know, 2) See, 3) Respond.
1. KNOW: Knowing what to look for—and what to ask—is the first step.
Before enrolling your child in a camp, class, or youth program, ask how that organization works to prevent abuse. Learn what policies are in place, how staff are screened and trained, and how safety is monitored.
6 Key Questions a Parent Should Ask of an Organization – from Praesidium
2. SEE: Grooming behaviors can be subtle—but they’re often the warning signs.
By learning what those patterns look like, adults can trust their instincts, take concerns seriously, and intervene early to protect a child.
6 Perpetrator Grooming Behaviors Every Parent Needs to Know – from Saprea
3. RESPOND: You don’t need proof—just a reason to be concerned.
If something feels off, speak up. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, coach, or community member, your voice can be the one that makes a difference.
Safer, Smarter Families Family Safety Toolkit (Grades K through High School) – from Lauren’s Kids
Our Ongoing Commitment
At the Y, child protection isn’t limited to one week in April. Staff and volunteers are trained in abuse prevention, and our policies are designed to create a culture of safety and accountability.
Download our Child Abuse Prevention Parent Guide for a detailed look at how to recognize abuse, protect your child, and have open, empowering conversations. The guide includes red flags to watch for, internet safety tips, and ways to help your child set boundaries and speak up.
Want to learn more?
Visit www.sewickleyymca.org/protectkids for Sewickley Valley YMCA policies, safety resources, and what to expect from a safe, supportive YMCA environment.