Navigating the conversation: Discussing sex trafficking with your child

January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Here are some guidelines I learned on how to discuss sex trafficking with children.

Posted 7:54 p.m. Jan 11 — Updated 8:19 p.m. Jan 11

Jelia Hepner

, WRAL multiplatform producer

RALEIGH, N.C. — As parents, we are responsible for providing our children with the knowledge and awareness they need to navigate the complexities of the world around them. One challenging yet vital topic that parents or guardians should address is sex trafficking.

Recently, my son received information about a sex trafficking awareness lesson at his Wake County middle school. While we've covered sex, drugs, social media and other sensitive topics, sex trafficking never came up. This prompted me to think about how to discuss this topic with my children at home as well. I want them to be informed and empowered, but I am also mindful of explaining tough topics in a way they are ready to understand.

How can I guide them, respecting their maturity levels, without causing unnecessary fear?

January is Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Here are some guidelines I learned on how to discuss sex trafficking with children.

Choose the right time and place: Make sure to begin the conversation in a safe and comfortable environment where your child feels secure. Timing is also important; choose a moment when both of you can have this discussion without distractions or time constraints.

Use age-appropriate language: Use language that matches your child's age and level of understanding. Use simple, clear, and age-appropriate terms to explain the idea of sex trafficking. You don't need to provide explicit details, but ensure your child learns the seriousness of the issue.

Establish Trust: Reassure your child that you intend to keep them safe and informed. Encourage them to ask questions and express their feelings without judgment. This will help build trust and open lines of communication.

Explain healthy relationships: Lay the groundwork by discussing healthy relationships and boundaries. Explain the importance of consent and teach your child to recognize when someone is trying to manipulate or coerce them.

Online safety: Emphasize the role of the internet in sex trafficking. Discuss the potential dangers of online interactions, the importance of privacy settings, and the significance of not sharing personal information with strangers.

Recognizing warning signs: Help your child understand the warning signs that someone may be a victim of trafficking. This may include sudden changes in behavior, isolation from friends and family, or the presence of controlling individuals. Encourage them to trust their instincts and report any concerns to a trusted adult.

Role-play scenarios: Try to engage in role-playing exercises to help your child practice responses to uncomfortable situations. This can empower them to react confidently and assertively if faced with potential dangers.

Discussing human dignity: Talk about the important value and dignity of every individual. Explain that no one should be treated as an object or forced into activities against their will. Encourage empathy and respect for others.

Resources for help: Ensure your child knows where to turn if they encounter a situation that makes them uncomfortable. Teach them emergency contact numbers and explain the role of trusted adults, such as parents, teachers or school counselors.

Reinforce ongoing communication: Let your child know that the conversation is ongoing. Regularly check in with them, ask about their online interactions, and reinforce the importance of staying alert and connected.

Jason Mitchell's daughter attends Reedy Creek Middle School, and he says it's good that kids are learning about sex traffic through school, but they also need to hear and learn about it from parents.

"I always remind my daughter to be aware of her surroundings and how to potentially spot if she's in danger," Mitchell said. "There's been a growing number of cases in North Carolina, and sometimes kids get so wrapped in their phones that they don't pay attention, which is why raising awareness is important."

Don't shy away from sex trafficking discussions. Start with honest, age-appropriate talks to build trust and confidence in your child. Keep the lines of communication open, educate them regularly, and create a safe space where they can thrive. Remember, empowered children are protected children.

David Thomas, a volunteer for the National Human Trafficking Hotline, says parents have an important role in helping children understand the importance and dangers of trafficking.

"Many young people believe it involves someone randomly abducting others in a white van," Thomas explained. "In reality, a significant number of cases involve individuals enticing minors through social media or posing as saviors to runaway youth."

According to Thomas, educating children about the subject at an early age increases our society's chances of reducing the annual number of cases and safeguarding the youth.

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