This month, Children’s Cove: the Cape and Islands Child Advocacy Center is pleased to announce we have been awarded re-accreditation by the National Children’s Alliance following an extensive application and site review process.

Congratulations to Children’s Cove for upholding an example of excellence for Child Advocacy Centers to follow, ensuring children have every chance to live a life free of abuse. Your continued accreditation speaks to your commitment of service.

NATIONAL CHILDREN'S ALLIANCE

As the accrediting agency for Children’s Advocacy Centers (CAC) across the country, the National Children’s Alliance (NCA) awards various levels of accreditation and membership to centers responding to allegations of child abuse in ways that are effective, efficient, and which put the needs of child victims of abuse first. 

With more than 950 CACs in the United States, national accreditation is the highest level of membership with the National Children’s Alliance and denotes an excellence in service provision. This is the fourth consecutive period of national accreditation received by Children’s Cove. READ MORE > >

Holiday Safety Discussions

The holidays can be a magical time filled with friends, family, and very busy schedules. However, it is important to remember that with all the hustle and bustle it can be the perfect time for an abuser to take advantage of a child. Having safety conversations early and often is a good way to reinforce family agreements for safety.

Here are some conversation prompts which may be helpful.

Bodily Autonomy

Teaching your children that they are the ones in charge of their body, especially during their early years, is incredibly important. Teaching bodily autonomy is letting children make choices, such as “do you want to sit on Santa’s lap?” If they say no, or become uncomfortable, don’t force it!

It’s OK to say “no!”

With lots of family around, it’s ok to tell children that they can say “no” to hugs and kisses. Every child has different preferences around affection. Discussing and role-modeling ways children can set boundaries around affection allows children to feel empowered in the decisions they make about their bodies. Support your children in these discussions and limits with family members.

Secrets vs. Surprises

Explain to children that there’s a difference between “secrets” and “surprises.” Secrets are usually about something unsafe or harmful, and not to be told to anyone. Surprises are meant to hide fun and good things, such as parties or gifts, for a short time. Secrets may make someone not feel well, where surprises usually make everyone feel good. Remind them that if anyone tells them to keep a secret, they should tell you or another safe adult ASAP!

SIGNS OF ABUSE

OUR STORY

HELPFUL READING

Welcome to the Team

Vicki Bice, PNP

The team at Children’s Cove is pleased to welcome our new Pediatric Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE), Vicki Bice. In October Vicki was hired by The Massachusetts Department of Public Health to train and serve as the region’s PediSANE. Vicki will undergo several months of on-site facilitated training and observation as part of the onboarding process at Children’s Cove. 

Vicki Bice holds a Master of Science degree from the University of Colorado and is certified as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. She has previously served as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner at Bramblebush Pediatrics in Falmouth, MA., as well as for Penn State Hershey Medical Center in Hershey, Penn. Vicki’s experience also includes serving as a contracted medical staff member for the United States Air Force in various locations.

READ THE FULL ARTICLE > >

"I am thrilled to join an organization committed to compassionate care and advocacy for children."