Yell and Tell Child Abuse Prevention and Education Program

Written by Debbie Mahoney

Education and prevention of child abuse is an important matter. That's why we developed the Yell and Tell-Break the Silence child abuse prevention education program.

This Yell and Tell program, to be used in the classroom in conjunction with Break the Silence, was adapted and expanded by SOC-UM, a non-profit organization dedicated to community awareness, children's education, and prevention of child abuse.

Due to budget restrictions on education, this program has been funded entirely through private donations.

Any reproductions, changes, or modifications must be approved by Safeguarding Our Children - United Mothers (SOC-UM).

For additional information write: SOC-UM 1878 West 11th Street, Box 191 Tracy, California 95376

an index to all Yell & Tell teaching materials is here.

To the Teacher (Grades 2-6):

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It is of vital importance that children learn to protect themselves from abuse and to find help if they are abused. As a caring professional working with today's already full and demanding curriculum, it can be very difficult to find a workable program that addresses child abuse and prevention. When I first read Ms. Mahoney's Yell and Tell, I was excited about the possibilities of using it in today's classrooms. It is a wonderful program and adapting and expanding it for your use has been a very rewarding project for me. I suggest completing the entire program in one day leaving time the following day for review and the sharing of projects. You may choose to do this early in the school year to help set the tone of your classroom and/or you may want to choose a day right after completing your district's drug and alcohol program (i.e., DARE or QUEST) as you will have a natural tie-in to this program. Inform parents in advance and invite them to attend. Try to make the day a celebration of children's empowerment. Have refreshments and a fun, reassuring and relaxing activity at the end of the day.

If this will not work for you, feel free to extend this program over a number of days. You may modify the pace to fit the needs of your students. Above all, help the children feel safe and strong throughout the lesson and activities. Some of the activities may be too "simplistic" for older elementary children and it's fine to omit them. Remember, however, despite the pseudo-sophistication of today's children, it's better to error on the side of overlearning in this subject area. Many caretakers have been amazed at what children who "knew better" have done.

It can sometimes feel overwhelming to, perhaps, be the one positive "trusted adult" with whom a particular child has regular contact, but remember you truly can make the difference in a child's life. By helping one child now you will be helping future generations of children, and our society at large. This is no small feat and one you should be proud of.

Sincerely,

Janiece Hopper,
Director of Education

For teachers, here's a sample letter to be sent to the parents/guardians announcing the Yell & Tell program.

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next: Yell and Tell - Parent Letter