In this episode of Conversations with Kristi, Kristi sits down with Adam from the Family Advocacy and Child Abuse Alliance to explore one of the most difficult but important topics we face as a society - child abuse prevention, awareness, and advocacy.

Kristi and Adam discuss the realities of child abuse, the warning signs that are often missed, and the critical role that education and awareness play in protecting children. This conversation sheds light on how abuse can occur in ways many people don’t expect, and why it’s essential for adults to feel confident recognising and responding to concerns.

Together, they unpack the importance of empowering children with knowledge about their bodies, boundaries, and safety, while also addressing the discomfort many adults feel when having these conversations.

This episode challenges the idea that child protection is someone else’s responsibility. Instead, it highlights how every adult - parent, educator, or community member - plays a role in creating safer environments for children.

Kristi and Adam also explore how trauma impacts children, why some behaviours are often misunderstood, and how we can better support children who may be experiencing harm.

This is not an easy conversation - but it is a necessary one.

It’s about awareness, education, and taking meaningful steps toward protecting children.

The realities of child abuse and why awareness matters

Common signs and indicators that a child may be at risk

Why many cases go unnoticed or unreported

The importance of teaching children about body safety and boundaries

How to have age-appropriate conversations with children about safety

The role of parents, educators, and communities in prevention

How trauma can impact behaviour and development

Why children may not disclose abuse immediately

How to respond when a child shares something concerning

The importance of creating safe, trusted environments for children

Child abuse is often misunderstood, and many people feel unsure about what to look for or how to respond.

As Adam shares, education is one of the most powerful tools we have in preventing harm.

When adults feel informed and confident, they are better equipped to recognise concerns early, respond appropriately, and support children in a way that prioritises safety and trust.

This conversation encourages a shift from avoidance and discomfort to awareness and action.

Because protecting children is not the responsibility of a few - it is the responsibility of all of us.

Adam is a representative of the Family Advocacy and Child Abuse Alliance, an organisation dedicated to raising awareness, educating communities, and advocating for the prevention of child abuse.

FACAA works to equip parents, educators, and professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to better understand, recognise, and respond to child abuse.

Their work focuses on prevention through education, helping create safer environments for children through informed and empowered communities.

🌐 Website
www.facaaus.org

📱 Social Media
@faca_aus

Donate to FACAA at
Donation FACAA

If this episode has raised questions about protecting children, having safety conversations, or supporting a child, Kristi provides trauma-informed education and practical tools for parents and carers.

🔗 Explore education and resources:
👉 www.kristimcvee.com 

Resources include:

Guidance on teaching children body safety and boundaries

Tools for building open and safe communication

Support for navigating difficult conversations

Trauma-informed parenting strategies

If you or someone you love needs support:

Lifeline – 13 11 14 | lifeline.org.au
1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732 | 1800respect.org.au
Kids Helpline (ages 5–25) – 1800 55 1800 | kidshelpline.com.au

If you are in immediate danger, contact emergency services.