By Ginny Sagal, Communication and Outreach Coordinator at the Children’s Advocacy Center

Since starting my job as Communication and Outreach Coordinator at CAC, I have had some thoughts about my parenting.  Being an older mom with twins has been a wonderful journey.  When they were little I would be very careful where they went for play dates, and who was going to be at the house.  I knew it was my job to protect them. That was some time ago.

As a parent of teenagers ready to go off to college in a year and a half, things are much different than when they were little.  No more play dates as they all seem to communicate with their friends on the internet.  I will walk into my son’s room only to find that he is online playing a game with five of his friends.  The new generation spends much time communicating with their peers online and texting.

I am happy that when I do go into my son’s or daughter’s rooms that they can share with me what they are doing and have no secrets.  When they are on FaceTime their friends get to see me and I get to see who they are.  Communication is very important with teenagers.  It is important to let them know that you care and that you give them their space, but also that you are there for them if they need you.  You are their protector.

I know with the parenting I have done, they will make good choices about who they will choose to be friends with and groups they will be part of once they get to college.  Protecting our children comes from good parenting and communication with your children.

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month.  Every child is special and needs our care and protection.  With good parenting tools we can contribute to a safer community for our children.