What To Expect at Braveheart Children's Advocacy Center
Your child has been scheduled for a forensic interview at Braveheart Children's Advocacy Center (CAC). A forensic interview is a child-friendly conversation conducted by a specially trained interviewer. The purpose of the interview is to provide your child with a safe, supportive place to share information about their experiences.
How to Prepare Your Child
Tell your child why they are coming.
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Let your child know they will be meeting with someone whose job is to talk with children and listen to them.
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Use simple, age-appropriate language.
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Encourage your child to be honest and tell the truth.
Remain calm and supportive.
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Children often take cues from the adults around them.
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Reassure your child that they are safe and that the purpose of the interview is to help.
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Let them know that they are not in trouble.
Do not question your child about the situation.
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Avoid asking your child to tell you what happened.
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Do not practice answers, coach, or suggest what they should say.
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Allow your child to share information in their own words during the interview.
Keep routines as normal as possible.
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Familiarity and consistency can help reduce anxiety.
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Try to maintain your child's usual schedule on the day of the interview whenever possible.
Bring a comfort item, if helpful.
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Some children feel more comfortable bringing a favorite toy, stuffed animal, blanket, or other comfort item.
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Please only bring an item that does not make noise.
Risk of Harm Interview
Sometimes children are interviewed even when there has not been a specific report made about them. This may occur when concerns involve a sibling, another child in the home, or someone who may have had contact with multiple children.
If your child is participating in a risk of harm interview:
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Explain that they will be meeting with someone whose job is to talk with children and make sure they are safe.
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Let your child know that they have not done anything wrong and are not in trouble.
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Encourage your child to answer questions honestly.
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Avoid asking your child questions about the concerns being investigated or suggesting what they should say during the interview.
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Reassure your child that the interview is simply an opportunity for them to talk about their experiences and answer questions in a safe environment.
During the Interview
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An advocate will meet with the caregiver to go over intake information.
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The forensic interviewer will meet with your child in a private, child-friendly room.
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Caregivers cannot view or occupy the interview.
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The interview is designed to be developmentally appropriate and conducted at your child's pace.
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A member of our team will be available to answer your questions and provide support.
After the Interview
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Your child may need extra comfort, reassurance, or quiet time.
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Follow your child's lead if they want to talk, but avoid pressing them for details about the interview.
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Plan a relaxing or enjoyable activity afterward to help your child unwind.
Remember
Your role is to support your child, remain calm, and allow them to share information in their own way. Thank you for helping create a safe and supportive experience for your child.
If you have questions before your appointment, please contact Braveheart Children's Advocacy Center.