Mayo Clinic Center for Safe and Healthy Children and Adolescents

What should I tell my child about visiting the CAC?

Children and teenagers are most comfortable when they have been informed about what to expect. It's important to explain to your child that someone will be talking to your child about what has happened, and that the interviewer is a person who listens to many children. You should not tell your child what to say, but encourage your child to tell the truth. Some children may need to be reassured and told that they have done nothing wrong.

How else can I help my child prepare?

Please be sure that your child arrives at the center well rested and fed. Some children do better at their visits when they bring a comfort item from home, such as a blanket or small stuffed animal.

What if my child starts talking to me about the situation before the interview?

Listen to your child and be supportive, but do not ask questions.

• Stay calm and neutral when talking with your child. Pay close attention to your words and actions. Show interest in what your child says and do not react with shock, horror or indifference.
• Do not offer names of possible offenders or describe possible acts of abuse.
• Do not videotape or audiotape your conversation with your child.

Can I sit with my child during the interview or observe the interview?

No. Parents don't sit with their child during the interview or observe the interview with the multidisciplinary team. Children and teenagers need to be able to talk in a place that is as neutral as possible. And having a parent or guardian in the room or witnessing the interview makes that harder. Also, parents and guardians are often witnesses in potential legal cases, and your testimony may be compromised by watching your child's interview.

Will my child need a medical exam?

The medical team may recommend a medical exam based on the concerns involving your child. The exam is like a well-child exam, with the option to complete a closer exam of the private areas if there is a concern about an injury or symptoms, or if this exam would be helpful to reassure your child about the health of the body. Our staff will explain everything to you and your child and will make every effort to make sure that your child is comfortable.

Will a medical exam be able to show whether my child was abused?

In cases of suspected child sexual abuse, when a physical exam is recommended, most children will not show any injuries or physical signs of abuse during the exam. This is a good thing, because it means the child's body is healthy. But it also can be frustrating for investigators and caregivers who desire proof of what happened. A child's disclosure is the most important piece of evidence about what happened.

While an exam is not likely to lend any certainty, some children and teenagers find it reassuring to have an expert evaluate them and support them. Others, who may have suspected injuries or symptoms, may benefit from an exam that can help guide testing and treatment.

Will this be the only time my child will have to talk about what happened?

Our team tries to reduce the need for more interviews by coordinating all involved professionals to be present on the day of your child's interview. This, however, does not mean that your child will never again have to talk about what happened. The team talks with you about the decision to prosecute the case and discusses your family's involvement in the court process. Some children and teenagers choose to continue to talk about their experiences with family and friends or are encouraged to speak with counselors to address their thoughts or feelings about what happened.