How to Talk With Children About Child Abuse [REPOST] (249)- Jane's Story

Knowing how to talk to kids about child abuse can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. In this impactful episode of Child Life On Call, host Katie Taylor interviews child abuse prevention advocate Jane Donovan—who also happens to be her mom.

Jane shares her personal journey, sparked by a tragic event, that led to a decades-long mission to protect children and educate communities. From creating a long-running puppet program for abuse prevention to empowering kids with body safety tools, this conversation is full of actionable advice for parents, caregivers, educators, and child life specialists.

This is a special repost of one of our most important and requested episodes. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting it, this conversation remains just as powerful and relevant today.

 

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How to talk to kids about child abuse in age-appropriate, non-scary ways

• The importance of ongoing conversations about personal safety

• How tools like puppets, music, and hula hoops teach children about personal boundaries

• What parents should know about mandated reporting and how to act on their instincts

• How to evaluate youth-serving organizations for child safety protocols

• Why Children’s Advocacy Centers are essential for abuse investigation and healing

Whether you're a parent, educator, or healthcare provider, this episode provides the tools and confidence you need to start meaningful conversations that protect kids and empower them.

Timestamps & Key Topics

⏱️ [00:00] – Introduction: Meet Jane Donovan

Katie introduces her guest (and mom), a lifelong child advocate
Learn how the Child Life On Call app empowers families

⏱️ [03:00] – A Personal Story That Inspired a Mission

How a child’s abduction changed Jane’s life
Why she dedicated her career to child abuse prevention

⏱️ [06:00] – What Are Children’s Advocacy Centers?

A child-friendly space for reporting, healing, and justice
How they support kids through forensic interviews and therapy

⏱️ [09:00] – Making Conversations About Abuse Less Scary

Why it’s not “the talk”—it’s ongoing, age-appropriate education
Teaching safety in everyday moments without fear

⏱️ [11:00] – Teaching Kids About Boundaries with Puppets

Introducing the “Kids Count Players” puppet show for elementary students
Using storytelling and music to make serious topics approachable

⏱️ [15:00] – Personal Space for Children: Hula Hoops & “Uh-oh” Feelings

How to use visual tools to teach kids about body autonomy and boundaries
The difference between “good touch” and “confusing touch”

⏱️ [22:00] – Real Impact in Schools

How the puppet show helped children disclose abuse
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