Few events cause as much concern, alarm and bewilderment as sexual misbehavior by a child.  For many of us, it can sometimes be difficult to tell the difference between sexual behavior that is normal and sexual behavior that is developmentally unexpected.  Behavior which is not usual or expected for the child’s age or level of development requires our attention; it is usually a child’s distress signal about previous sexual abuse, about the loss or separation from parents or siblings, or other difficulties that children encounter in substitute care.  

Appropriate intervention and treatment are essential for children who exhibit sexual behavior problems.  If untreated, a small number of children will progress to sexual behaviors which may be harmful to other children. Caregivers need to alert the child’s caseworker to any unusual sexual behavior of a child in care. Caseworkers can ask for a professional assessment of the child’s behavior. Gett ing help early can help the child and protect others living in the home.  As a mandated reporter for children living in the home, caregivers are required to call the DCFS Hotline if they have reason to believe a child living with them sexually abused another child.