Sexually abused children rarely talk about their abuse. Adults can help children by recognizing signs of possible sexual abuse. These signs suggest sexual abuse. If you notice these or other concerning signs, call your local child protection agency or Blue Sky Bridge at 303.444.1388. Some sexually abused children do not exhibit any signs.

Children up to age 3:

·  Excessive crying

·  Sleep disturbances

·  Feeding problems

·  Bowel problems

·  Failure to thrive

·  Sexualized play

·  Genital injury

Children ages 2 to 9:

·  Sexual knowledge / behavior / language not age appropriate

·  Sexualized play

·  Nightmares or sleep disturbances

·  Excessive masturbation

·  Regression to earlier behaviors such as clinging, bed wetting, or stranger anxiety

·  Withdrawal from family or friends

·  Victimization of others

·  Fear of particular people, places, or activities

·  Eating disturbances

·  Abrupt change in behavior

·  Aggression / destructiveness

Children ages 10 through 12:

·  Sexual knowledge / behavior / language not age appropriate

·  Eating disturbances

·  Nightmares or sleep disturbances

·  Change in school performance

·  Aggression / depression / anger

·  Victimization of others

Teens ages 13 – 17:

·  Promiscuity

·  Substance abuse

·  Running away from home

·  Early pregnancy or marriage

·  Suicide or attempts

·  Change in school performance

·  Aggression / depression / anger

·  Victimization of others

·  Self-mutilation / self-inflicted harm

·  Eating disorders

	Warning Signs of Possible Child Sexual Abuse (95 KB)