Training

What is Training?

Training programs are offered to staff at least annually to heighten awareness of your commitment to safety and help create a culture of zero-tolerance for child abuse.

At minimum, Training should include the following:

All staff and volunteers understand and review at least annually, your policies and procedures, including your Code of Conduct, Safe Environment, Screening and Hiring, and Reporting.
Annual training is provided on the different forms of child abuse and neglect, their prevalence in childhood, the long-term impacts on children, and how to recognize the signs and symptoms of abuse and grooming.

All training provided using a variety of methods, including in-person and virtual, on-the-job and on-site instruction, and partner training with other YSOs.
Resources, factsheets, handouts, and flyers are available and readily available on-site and online resources are shared with all staff and volunteers.

Training
How-To in 3 Steps

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Step 1

Establish Minimum Training Standards

Review current training programs to determine where the minimum training standards are being met and where additional training is needed.
Determine how many staff and volunteers need training and at what levels, starting with those who will have direct, unmonitored access to children.
Assess the resources and expertise at your YSO to help determine the scope of the training program and your implementation strategy.
Appoint an individual or team to take responsibility for all aspects of the training program.
Empower selected individuals or groups with the authority necessary to enforce and accomplish compliance with the YSO’s training requirements.

Step 2

Research and Identify Trainings

Research local and statewide organizations and training programs that provide required training.
Select evidence-informed curricula evaluated for effectiveness to enhance YSO-specific training.
Consult with state and local prevention expertise to determine the types of training programs available, their cost, format, length, and schedule.
Determine how best to combine training with prevention information and policies and procedures specific to your YSO.
Explore opportunities and other similar child abuse prevention training events that may be accessible through schools and other organizations.
Educate parents on child sexual abuse prevention, including how to talk to their children to keep them safe and healthy.

Step 3

Implement Trainings

Set a schedule that allows staff and volunteers multiple opportunities to attend all required training.
Select a venue ideal for learning, ensuring it has the necessary equipment for a training event, including technology and adequate space.
Record attendance, promptly follow up with those who miss a session and provide a future date to attend, or individualized instruction.
Consider issuing “certificates of completion” to all training attendees.
Circulate after-training surveys and evaluations to allow for participant feedback and include questions that measure learning and skill-building.
Ensure instructors who are training children receive appropriate training on the curriculum and parents are regularly informed and involved.