Each year, more than 63,000 children in the United States are identified as victims of sexual abuse—that’s five classrooms of children every single day. And these are only the confirmed cases. The truth is that most cases go unreported, meaning the actual scope is far greater. Abuse is widespread. Underreported. And behind every statistic is a child who deserves safety, protection, and the chance to enjoy the simple joys of childhood.
Fall is a season full of those joys—pumpkin patches, cozy sweaters, school traditions, sports practices, and family gatherings. But just as the season grows busier, so do the risks. With more after-school programs, holiday travel, and time spent in new environments, kids need safe adults who are prepared to protect them.
That’s where Darkness to Light’s 5 Steps to Protecting Children™ Fall Edition comes in. See below for our five simple, practical actions you can take this fall to ensure children are surrounded by safety, by care, and have the freedom to fully enjoy the season.
Step 1: Learn the Facts
Like the shifting colors of fall, child sexual abuse doesn’t have just one appearance. It takes many forms and happens across all races, religions, regions, socioeconomic statuses, and ages. Understanding the facts breaks through misconceptions and gives adults the tools to act with clarity.
Here are a few key facts and reminders to keep in mind this season:
- 90% of children who are sexually abused know their abuser. Abuse most often happens within trusted relationships, not at the hands of strangers.
- Youth-serving programs vary widely in safety policies. Asking about background checks, supervision ratios, and training can reduce risk in after-school clubs, sports, and tutoring.
- More than 70% of children who are sexually abused are abused by a peer. Even fun settings like fall festivals, parties, or trick-or-treating need active supervision.
- Approximately 1 in 5 youth experience unwanted online exposure to sexually explicit material. Knowing which apps your child uses and how they communicate online is critical for digital safety.
👉 This fall, as you notice the changes around you, commit to strengthening your knowledge—because awareness is where prevention begins.
Step 2: Minimize Opportunity
With fall comes sports practices, after-school tutoring, and family gatherings—moments when kids may find themselves alone with adults. We know that abusers often take advantage of these one-on-one situations to isolate children. That’s why Step 2 is all about reducing isolation and building safer environments.
- Check in during practices or tutoring sessions. A quick drop-by can make a big difference.
- Encourage groups for walking to school, trick-or-treating, or heading to activities.
- Offer group activities (like fall crafts or pumpkin carving) instead of solo playdates.
- Ask about supervision policies before enrolling in fall sports or clubs.
👉 This season, look for ways to open doors—literally and figuratively—to create safe, supervised spaces for kids.
Step 3: Talk About It
Just like sharing stories around the table or carving pumpkins together, conversations about safety should be part of everyday life. Children who regularly talk about body safety, boundaries, and consent are more likely to speak up if something feels wrong.
Here are some natural moments this fall to open up conversations:
- Use car rides to and from activities as a time to ask questions and listen.
- Talk about personal boundaries during costume planning, reminding kids they can say no to unwanted touch.
- Bring up safety at family gatherings when new or extended relatives are around.
- Model openness, letting kids know no topic is off-limits if something worries them.
👉 Make safety conversations as natural as talking about school or sports, it can make all the difference.
Step 4: Recognize the Signs
Fall teaches us to notice changes—the shorter days, cooler air, and shifting leaves. In the same way, protecting children means paying attention to changes in their behavior, mood, or routines. Most children don’t tell us directly when something is wrong, but their actions often do.
Here are some signs to be mindful of this season:
- Watch for sudden changes in mood after activities, practices, or visits.
- Pay attention to reluctance about attending a club, lesson, or gathering they once enjoyed.
- Notice shifts in sleep or appetite, especially during busy school months.
- Trust your instincts—if something feels off, don’t dismiss it.
👉 This fall, just as you notice the changes in the world around you, take time to notice the small changes in the kids you care about.
Step 5: React Responsibly
When a child discloses or you suspect abuse, your response can shape their path to safety and healing. Being prepared to respond calmly and responsibly is one of the most important roles a safe adult can play.
Here are some ways to put Step 5 into practice this season:
- Stay calm and listen if a child shares something concerning.
- Offer reassurance, letting them know you believe them and that they did the right thing by telling you.
- Know your state’s reporting laws before busy holiday travel or visits.
- Take action quickly, reporting suspicions to the proper authorities.
👉 Only 4% to 8% of reports of all sexual abuse are false. This fall, commit to being ready—because how you respond in the moment can make all the difference.
As autumn reminds us of growth and transition, let it also inspire a commitment to the 5 Steps to Protecting Children™. By making these steps part of your fall routines, you create safer spaces where children can explore, learn, and simply enjoy being kids.
