When a child begins to disclose, it is often uncomfortable for the child and or you.
A child may stop and start, hesitate, or stop talking all together. At such times, you may be inclined to ask the child questions to determine whether filing a report is necessary.
However, asking questions often has the opposite effect and can further shut down the child. It is often more effective to simply make statements rather than ask questions.
“This is difficult to talk about.”
- “Talking about what happened can be uncomfortable.”
- “Take as much time as you need.”
- “When you are ready, tell me more.”
As an SRO you are not the investigator, judge, or jury. You are there to support and report.