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 TIPS FOR PARENTSYour child should be told ahead of time about the interview. We suggest that you tell your child that he/she will be going to a place to
talk to someone about what happened to him/her.
- DO NOT have your child practice what to say.
- Since children are often tricked during abuse situations, we believe in letting the child know exactly what is going to happen during the interview.
LET THE CHILD KNOW:
- The interview will be videotaped.
- The offender will not be present.
- Explain to your child that you will not be in the interview room/observation room during the interview, but you will be nearby in the waiting room.
- Explain to your child that there will be a team of helpers observing the interview in another room.
- You should assure your child that this is not a medical appointment.
ON THE DAY OF THE INTERVIEW:
- An interviewer will meet with you in the waiting room to answer any questions you may have.
- The interviewer will introduce him/herself to your child.
- The interviewer will then meet with your child alone while the other team members observe through a one-way mirror. When this occurs, you will be allowed to wait in the waiting room.
(**Parents are not permitted in the interview room or the observation room**)
- A videotape will be made of the interview to use for evidence and to help reduce the number of times your child will have to talk about what happened
- After the interview, we will meet to discuss what happens next.
HELPFUL IDEAS:
- Please be sure that your child is not hungry before arriving at the Center.
- If the child eats before the interview, try to minimize their sugar intake.
- Try to bring another adult with you, who your child is comfortable with. This allows for you to meet with the team after the interview (if you choose to) without your child.
- We ask that you do not bring another child with you unless you are asked to do so.
- Remain calm and supportive for your child.
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