Exploitation Prevention Starts Earlier Than You Think

Prevention should start earlier than you think, and it often looks like love, not fear.

The topic of human trafficking can feel…heavy. You might see headlines that make your stomach drop. Statistics that feel impossible to hold. Messages that leave you wondering if you’re doing enough — or if danger is somehow everywhere?

Before anything else, we want to say this: Prevention isn’t about living on high alert.

And it isn’t about scaring kids (or ourselves). Most real prevention work happens quietly, in the background of everyday family life.

Prevention isn’t a scary talk. It’s a relationship.

When people hear “human trafficking prevention,” they often imagine one big conversation — something serious and formal that you have to get exactly right.

But prevention usually doesn’t work that way. It grows out of trust. Out of kids knowing they can ask questions. Out of caregivers who listen calmly, even when something feels uncomfortable.

Most exploitation doesn’t start with a stranger in a dark alley. It often starts with attention, connection, or someone meeting a need a child already has. That’s why the strongest protection we can offer isn’t fear — it’s relationship.

One sentence that matters more than you think…

If there’s one thing worth repeating often, it’s this: “You can always tell me if something feels confusing or uncomfortable – and you won’t be in trouble.”

Kids are much more likely to speak up early when they believe:

• they won’t be blamed
• they won’t be punished
• they won’t make things worse by telling

You don’t need to have all the answers when a child comes to you. You just need to be the safe place where questions are allowed.

You don’t need special language or a perfect plan.

Prevention shows up in ordinary moments, like when:

• you listen without rushing
• you take your child seriously
• you stay curious instead of reactive
• you model boundaries in your own life

These small moments teach children something powerful: my voice matters and help is available.

Prevention is about building homs and communities where kids feel safe asking for help before something goes wrong. 

And that work often starts earlier and more gently than we expect.

If this topic feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. You don’t have to be perfect, and you don’t have to cover everything at once. You’re already doing important prevention work simply by showing up with care and attention.

Written by Sarah Mouser 
Child Safety & Digital Wellbeing Expert
and Love146 Prevention Program Manager