Safety Topics

Preventing Child Abuse
“Between Friends”

Suggested Grade Levels

1, 2, 3 and 4

Overview

Between Friends sensitively addresses the issue of abuse - physical and sexual - by creating a developmentally appropriate, safe atmosphere where children will feel comfortable learning about the problem and how to deal with it. The program features two children talking about their past experiences of being sexually or physically abused, and discussing how to get help. (Please note that due to the sensitive nature of this program, a counselor must be present during and after the show. See note below under “Format” for more details.)

Script Scenario

Joanne Spinoza, 14, tells her friend, Stephen Arthur, that she was sexually abused a few years ago. He understands Joanne’s confusion and fear because he experienced physical abuse in the past. They talk about how telling someone you trust is the best thing to do. Then, together they practice a scene in which she works through her embarrassment and tells a trusted adult about the abuse.

Objectives

• Talk about the difference between “good touch” and “bad touch.”
• Explain that abuse is never the child’s fault.
• Stress that a child has the right to say no.
• Help children identify and tell a trusted adult if they feel they are in an uncomfortable situation.

Format

This 30-minute program consists of a scripted-story puppet presentation, followed by a guided question and answer session. During the Q & A time, the puppets reinforce learning objectives and encourage children to share their questions and concerns. To extend learning and repeat key lessons, all children receive a take-home Kids on the Block bookmark imprinted with the program’s messages, and they are encouraged to write letters or emails to the puppets.

Teachers receive a resource packet with topic-related information and activities. They are also supplied with answers to the most common questions children ask about the subject and a way to contact Kids on the Block staff for additional guidance. To help Kids on the Block improve our programs, teachers are asked to complete a short program evaluation form as well.

NOTE: Teachers will receive a parent consent form (in English and/or Spanish) to be sent home and signed by parents prior to the performance. The presence of a school counselor is required during and immediately following the show. In the event of a child’s disclosure of abuse made during a performance (or in a letter received by Kids on the Block after the program), Kids on the Block, in compliance with mandatory reporting laws, assures that the school counselor and/or other proper school officials will be immediately notified so that appropriate intervention, support and counseling can ensue. Schools are responsible for reporting instances of abuse to appropriate services.

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