November 08, 2025

Episode #205: DeepDive: The Strongest Shield: Why Parental Discomfort is the Biggest Threat to Child Safety and the Two Proactive Tools Every Adult Needs Now, Feather Berkower Expert Tips

8 minutes

Thriving Minds Podcast Deep Dive: Building a Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Team Hosted by Professor Selena Bartlett
Expert: Feather Berkower, Author of Off Limits: A Parent’s Guide to Keeping Kids Safe from Sexual Abuse

The top 5 things to keep children safe in the digital age.

Feather challenges the outdated belief that children should be responsible for protecting themselves. Instead, she empowers adults to take charge by building what she calls a “Prevention Team.” This team includes everyone in your child’s world—teachers, coaches, grandparents, babysitters—and sets clear boundaries and safety rules that deter potential offenders before they ever gain access.

It is the small, brave conversations that can make a lifelong difference. From teaching kids the difference between secrets and surprises, to addressing online grooming and exposure to pornography, Feather shows how open, honest, and continuous dialogue is the most powerful protection tool we have.

Top 5 Takeaways for Parents

Adults are responsible, not children, for preventing abuse.
Talk, talk, talk—and don’t stop talking about body safety.
Build your Prevention Team by having explicit boundary conversations with anyone who cares for your child.
Discomfort is protective—feeling awkward now prevents trauma later.
Use practical tools like Off Limits and Feather’s Conversation Starter Cards to begin these vital discussions today.

This episode will leave you informed, empowered, and ready to create a safer world for children—one conversation at a time.

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By Professor Selena Bartlett, Neuroscientist, Brain Health is Everyone's Business

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