It’s Their Courtroom Too: Preparing Children for Court

Testifying in court is often portrayed as a traumatic experience that re-victimizes child abuse survivors—but it doesn’t have to be. With the right support, testifying can be an empowering step in a child’s healing process and a way to confront an abuser who once felt larger than life. The difference often lies in how the child is prepared for court. This presentation will explore common stressors faced by children and their families, offer preparation strategies for both caregivers and child witnesses, and provide guidance on how to help the court environment accommodate a child’s needs.