With all the mood changes that kids experience during a holiday, how can we tell the difference between holiday anxiety and when something like sexual abuse is happening to them?

     The more pronounced emotional changes might include:
      Depression

      Fears and phobias

      Reluctance to be left alone with a particular person

What other Physical symptoms or signs could we see?

     Bleeding or discharge from rectum or vaginal area

     Sore or swollen genital areas

     Stained underpants

     Pain on urination

     Age inappropriate knowledge of sexual matters

     Self destructive behavior

     Bedwetting

     Significant change in school performance

     Sexually transmitted diseases

Are there any other indicators they might display through acting out?

      Excessive masturbation

      Acting more infantile

      Running away

      Attempts at suicide

What can parents do when they see these kinds of behaviors and physical symptoms?

• Talk to them lovingly.
  
  Talk without extreme pressure.
  
  Ask them what is bothering them.
  
  Let them know they are trusted.
  
  Let them know you trust them to tell the truth.
  
  Ask them what you can do to make them feel better.
  
  Watch the people who have contact and access to them very closely.
  
  Seek the help and advice of a professional if symptoms get severe or continue       over days or weeks.

These signs are not in and of themselves, conclusive evidence that your child was sexually abused. They must be looked at in conjunction with other behaviors and factors.