TIPS FOR CAREGIVERS WHOSE CHILD MUST TESTIFY 
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1) Children will experience less anxiety and trauma if the important adults around them control their own anxiety by seeking support in family, friends, advocates, and/or counselors.

2) Do not try to investigate or handle the case yourself. This could harm the case and potentially harm your child. Children often disclose details of an incident over time in their own time; prompting may cause trauma by forcing a child to relive an event over or by making them feel frustration that they cannot remember. Also, similar to adult, some topics are sensitive in nature and children may be embarrassed to talk about them. Talk to the prosecutor or Victim-Witness Assistance Program staff about your concerns. They will be happy to answer your questions.

3) Emphasize to your child that you believe him or her.  Tell your child that you are proud of him or her for telling the truth and that your feelings for them have not and will not change. 

4) Remember that your most important role throughout the court process (and your child's life) is to provide comfort, support, and love.  Knowing that you care and support them is often the most important way to decrease trauma from any negative experience.