How can I keep my kids safe without them missing out? - with Victoria Barendsen, psychologist (in sexual abuse prevention)

2025-07-08

Just a heads-up: we do talk about child sexual abuse in this chat, so please skip this one if it feels like too much right now. In this episode, we chat with the lovely Victoria Barendsen, a psychologist who specialises in sexual abuse prevention, about how we can keep our kids safe without them missing out on all the fun stuff—like sleepovers and playdates. Vic shares simple, age-appropriate ways to talk to our kids about body safety, boundaries, and consent. She also gives us some great tips on what to look out for in different settings, and how to empower ou...

Just a heads-up: we do talk about child sexual abuse in this chat, so please skip this one if it feels like too much right now.

In this episode, we chat with the lovely Victoria Barendsen, a psychologist who specialises in sexual abuse prevention, about how we can keep our kids safe without them missing out on all the fun stuff—like sleepovers and playdates. Vic shares simple, age-appropriate ways to talk to our kids about body safety, boundaries, and consent. She also gives us some great tips on what to look out for in different settings, and how to empower our children with knowledge—without scaring them. It’s a really important convo we think all parents and carers should hear.

As always, we hope you enjoy! 💛

Resource links:

Follow Victoria on IG: @thesafekidsproject

Link to Free Playdates and Sleepovers Checklist (referred to in the podcast)

Link to website: thesafekidsproject.com

Links for support AUS:

1800RESPECT

Phone: 1800 737 732 (24/7)

Website: www.1800respect.org.au

Services: 24/7 confidential counselling, information, and referrals for people impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence.

Bravehearts

Phone: 1800 272 831

Website: www.bravehearts.org.au

Services: Support and advocacy for child sexual abuse prevention and survivor support.

Kids Helpline

Phone: 1800 55 1800 (24/7)

Website: www.kidshelpline.com.au

Services: Free, private and confidential phone and online counselling for young people aged 5 to 25.

Links for support NZ:

Safe to Talk – Sexual Harm Helpline

Phone: 0800 044 334 (24/7) or Text: 4334

Online chat: www.safetotalk.nz

Email: support@safetotalk.nz

Services: Free, confidential support for anyone affected by sexual harm — survivors, friends, whānau, and professionals. Available 24/7.

HELP Auckland

Website: www.helpauckland.org.nz

Phone (24/7): 0800 623 1700

Services: Crisis support and long-term therapy for survivors of sexual abuse and assault in the Auckland region.

ACC Sensitive Claims

Website: www.acc.co.nz/im-injured/what-we-cover/sensitive-claims/

Services: Covers therapy and support for people who have experienced sexual abuse or assault in New Zealand — past or recent.

Beyond the Bump is a podcast brought to you by Jayde Couldwell and Sophie Pearce! A podcast targeted at mums, just like you! A place to have real conversations with honest and authentic people.

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