Alas, most assaulted children were targeted by someone close, rather than by a stranger. Most assailants will spend time grooming not only the child but also the parents to gain their trust and access to the child. So, in addition to grab releases and strikes to tender targets, I work with my students (as well as their parents) on how to recognize inappropriate behavior and who to tell for effective action.

But, sadly, many children won’t tell for years.