Children with sexualised behaviours need support, not silence and stigma

Reports of coercive sex acts among small children quite understandably provoke strong and broad ranging reactions. Isolating a child from their peers does nothing to address the underlying concerns that may have lead to a child behaving in this way. Rather, children with sexualised behaviours require a sensitive therapeutic response to provide them with the appropriate supports to adopt respectful behaviours towards others. In school settings it is crucial that a sensible and sensitive safety plan is implemented that prioritises the wellbeing and integration of all children, including the child with the behaviours.