Child Molesters, Child Abuse Effects: Bulimia, Eating Disorders, Addictions

Second graders at Reilly Elementary School learned about their rights, "to be safe, strong and free in various situations such as bullies, strangers and unwanted touches," Pebble Project volunteer Ana-Cristina Gonzales said.

Through role play, volunteers teach these students how to recognize abusive or dangerous situations.

"I think it's important especially now days with everything that's going on here lately in the news here in the Austin elementary schools about strangers coming in and trying to take kids way. I think it's important for them to be aware of what's going on," Gonzales said.

The life lesson includes how to resist abuse, and the importance of telling a trusted adult if the child has been bullied, approached by a stranger or hurt by someone they know.

"A lot of kids feel like they shouldn't tell on other kids because it's tattletaling and we want the kids to know that they do have rights and therefore it's really reporting something that's happening than just getting someone in trouble," Pebble Project volunteer Michael Hurewitz said.

The program also encourages parents and teachers to talk to their children about safety and what is and is not appropriate in different situations.

"The most valuable one is that they are able to identify people at school and at home who they feel safe with and who they can talk to," Gonzales said.

For more information about volunteering with the Pebble Project or to schedule a presentation for your school, you can call them at (512) 464-9727. Read Pebble Project safety tips online.