This year we are focusing on the beginning stages of potential abuse where we are not alerted to abuse, necessarily, but rather to inappropriate behavior that often precedes abuse or the attempt of abuse. Grooming is the deliberate manipulation tactic predators use to gain trust. There are three types of grooming: Physical, Psychological, and Community. Learning to recognize grooming signs is the best way to prevent abuse from happening. Over the next few weekends in April we will present some defining elements of grooming. If you know of abuse or have a healthy suspicion of abuse, call DCF at 1-800-96ABUSE (1-800-962-2873)