Course Overview

The third grade prevention program builds off of the concepts taught to younger students. Older students are taught the proper terminology for the different types of abuse (physical, emotional, neglect, sexual, and trafficking). Special focus is given to the two types of sexual abuse: contact and non-contact. 

These curricula include games and activities to test students’ knowledge of concepts and reinforce safety strategies. “Not Room in 204” is a children’s book used to illustrate how to talk to a trusted adult. Tic Tac Toe is an activity used on the second day to test retention of prevention information.

Each presentation takes place in the individual classroom, which is best practice, so that students can learn in a comfortable, small group setting, ask questions, and have opportunities to participate. Prevent Child Abuse Utah’s curriculum should never be taught in an assembly or large group setting. The topics are sensitive and can be triggering for students who have experienced abuse. It is important for trainers to be able to see and gauge student reactions in order to provide support for each student. Teaching the content in small groups is a trauma-informed practice.

The third grade curriculum covers the following points as outlined by the Utah State Board of Education for child abuse and human trafficking prevention standards: 

• Recognizing warning signs
• Grooming (particularly gift giving and secret keeping)
• Human trafficking prevention
• Trusting adults
• Reporting

It also covers the following standards from the Child Sexual Abuse Prevention standards:

• Sexual misconduct
• Appropriate adult behavior 
• Practice saying no
• Secrets
• Body ownership
• Victims are not at fault 
• Trusting feelings
• Create a reporting plan
• Recognizing warning signs 
• Reporting