Educators have a unique position in preventing child abuse, neglect, and sexual maltreatment due to their presence as a constant factor in the lives of children from kindergarten through high school. Many child abuse prevention education materials are available. Effective materials are developmentally relevant, skill-based, nonthreatening, and affirming of positive touch. Educators need to be aware of the indicators of abuse and to document their observations. Reporting laws define child abuse and neglect, who is mandated to report, to whom abuse must be reported, the time frame in which reports should be made, and the content of the report. Educators can also provide a crucial link between service providers and families disrupted by abuse. Educators must also take the lead with parent groups to change the status of children in society. Educators who have been abused themselves need to work on their own healing, have a support system, and excuse themselves from training children if this topic is too difficult for them. 15 references