SCHOOL PROGRAMS

 

School-Based Prevention Programs

In Compliance with Erin’s Law

At the Regional Child Advocacy Center, we proudly partner with schools to deliver age-appropriate, evidence-based prevention programs that teach children how to recognize unsafe situations and seek help. These programs are provided at no cost to schools and are designed to comply with Erin’s Law, which requires public schools to provide child sexual abuse prevention education from Pre-K through 12th grade.

What Is Erin’s Law?

Erin’s Law is named after Erin Merryn, a survivor of child sexual abuse who has led a national effort to ensure children receive personal body safety education in schools. The law was passed in Alabama to ensure that children are taught:

  • How to recognize inappropriate behavior and unsafe situations

  • How to set healthy personal boundaries

  • How to report abuse to a trusted adult

  • That abuse is never their fault, and it’s okay to speak up

The law also encourages schools to train educators and inform parents, creating a community-wide response to prevention.

By implementing Erin’s Law, we help children gain the confidence and vocabulary they need to protect themselves and others.

Our Prevention Education Programs

 

3rd Grade: The Protect Yourself Rules

This engaging program uses six animated video lessons to introduce students to personal body safety in a non-threatening, age-appropriate way. Children learn how to:

  • Identify unsafe touches and behaviors

  • Say “no” and remove themselves from uncomfortable situations

  • Name trusted adults they can talk to

  • Understand that it’s always okay to ask for help

Each child receives a coloring and activity booklet to reinforce the lesson.
Estimated Duration: 30 minutes

5th, 7th, 9th Grades: SCAN (Stop Child Abuse and Neglect)

This program builds on previous knowledge with more in-depth, age-specific discussions using a guided PowerPoint and interactive activity booklet. Topics include:

  • Neglect, physical, and sexual abuse

  • Grooming and how abusers gain trust

  • Internet safety and protection from online predators

  • How and where to report abuse

Estimated Duration: 45 minutes

Parental Communication

After each presentation, students take home a program summary letter that includes:

  • A brief description of the topics covered

  • The importance of open conversations at home

  • Contact information for the Regional CAC for any questions or conerns 

We encourage parents to review the material and continue the discussion at home to reinforce safety messages.

Why This Matters

Children are often too afraid or confused to disclose abuse. Prevention education empowers them with the language and courage to recognize abuse, ask for help, and know that they are never to blame.

By working together — schools, parents, and the RCAC — we are giving children the tools they need to be heard, protected, and safe.