The resource project

A Note to the Parent Reading This

Introduction 

You are reading this. That matters more than you may realize. 

Welcome. If you are reading this guide, it is likely because someone you love has disclosed, or may have experienced, childhood sexual abuse.

First, you are not alone. You may be feeling overwhelmed, frightened, angry, confused, heartbroken, or unsure of what to do next. These are normal reactions to an incredibly difficult situation. 

You may also be worried about saying the wrong thing, making the wrong decision, or not knowing where to begin. You do not need to have all the answers today.

Your response matters 

Research consistently tells us that one of the most damaging experiences a survivor of childhood sexual abuse can face is not being believed – particularly by the person they trust most. A May 2025 study confirmed that children's disclosures are frequently met with "disbelief, denial, and minimization," and that this response, even when born from shock rather than intention, can cause lasting harm that compounds the original trauma.

Whatever brought you to this page, choosing to listen, believe and support your child matters. Research shows that the response of a parent or caregiver can play an important role following a child's disclosure and throughout their recovery. A safe, supportive and believing adult can make a meaningful difference as a child begins to heal.  

In Canada, only one adult in ten who experienced childhood sexual abuse reports having had any contact with child protection services (Institut national de santé publique du Québec, 2024). This illustrates how many survivors and families may navigate the effects of childhood sexual abuse with little or no involvement from formal child-protection systems. Parents and caregivers can carry an enormous weight, often without a roadmap. This guide is intended to help provide one.

Remember — you are not alone in this. And your child is fortunate to have you.

Our Hope for This Guide

No family expects to find themselves navigating the aftermath of child sexual abuse.

Unfortunately, when abuse is disclosed, many parents discover there is no single place that clearly explains what to expect or where to find help. Families are often left searching multiple websites, making countless phone calls, and trying to understand unfamiliar systems while coping with shock, grief, and fear.

This resource was created to change that, by helping you take the next step — and then the one after that — one step at a time.

Healing Is Possible. Although the road ahead may feel uncertain, childhood sexual abuse does not have to define your child's future.

Children can and do recover. Families can heal. Hope is real.

The Resource Project is not intended to replace legal advice, medical care, mental health treatment, or emergency services. Every family's circumstances are different, and professionals may recommend different steps depending on your situation.

Although many examples refer to parents, the information applies to anyone who is caring for and supporting a child.

A Few Important Things to Remember

• Every child responds differently

• Every family heals differently

• There is no "right" way to feel

• Some children appear calm

• Some become angry

• Some become withdrawn

• Some continue life as though nothing happened.

All of these reactions are understandable. Healing is not measured by how quickly someone "moves on." Healing can look like growing in safety, trust, connection, and hope over time.

About The Ironwood Project

The Ironwood Project is a registered Canadian charity based in Halton Hills, Ontario, dedicated to supporting survivors of childhood sexual abuse, their families, and the broader community through peer support, education, prevention, and advocacy.

We believe that healing happens in connection - with compassionate people, accurate information, and communities willing to have courageous conversations.

A Final Word Before You Begin

If there is one message we hope stays with you throughout this guide, it is this:

Your child does not need you to have all the answers.

They need to know they are safe.

They need to know they are believed.

They need to know they are loved.

One safe, caring, supportive adult can make an extraordinary difference in a child's recovery.

Thank you for taking this journey with them.

One step at a time.