PREPARING FOR YOUR CHILD’S FORENSIC INTERVIEW

BY BEING CALM, SUPPORTIVE, AND PREPARED, YOU CAN CREATE THE BEST POSSIBLE ENVIRONMENT
FOR YOUR CHILD, DURING THIS IMPORTANT PROCESS.

  • Make sure you have any necessary legal documents, such as custody paperwork or medical records, that may be relevant to the case. If the parent or guardian cannot attend, please provide consent prior to the day of the interview.

  • Without going into detail or specifics, you can explain that the interview is just a conversation where they can share whatever they feel is important, and the people they will talk to are there to help.

  • There's no need to question them beforehand or guide their answers. The Moore County Children's Advocacy Center is focused on finding the truth in a neutral, unbiased manner. Supporting your child's honesty ensures the best outcome for the investigation.

  • Help your child feel comfortable by maintaining a calm and supportive attitude. Let them know that they are safe and that the purpose of the interview is to help.

  • Try to keep your child's daily routine as normal as possible on the day of the interview. Familiarity and consistency can help reduce any anxiety they may feel.

  • Some children feel more at ease with a favorite toy, blanket, or other comfort item.

  • After the interview, your child may need extra comfort or a calm environment. Plan a relaxing, enjoyable activity for afterward to help them wind down.

  • Avoid exposing your child to conversations or media related to the case. Keeping the environment low-stress can help your child feel more relaxed going into the interview.

  • As a parent or guardian, it's natural to feel stressed or worried. However, it’s important to stay composed to reassure your child. If needed, consider speaking with a counselor or trusted person to manage your emotions.

WHAT TO EXPECT THE DAY OF YOUR FORENSIC INTERVIEW

WILL I BE ABLE TO WATCH MY CHILD’S INTERVIEW?

Parents are not allowed in the interview room. This helps create a neutral, supportive space for your child. Only trained professionals involved in the investigation are in the observation room to minimize any pressure on your child and allow them to share openly.

We know you want to support your child, but a parent's presence can unintentionally influence what a child shares. For this reason, every interview is recorded, ensuring your child won’t need to retell their story, and recordings are shared with law enforcement or the Department of Social Services as needed.

WHEN YOU ARRIVE:

When you and your child arrive at our center, our family advocate will welcome you warmly. They will guide you through each step of the process, including assistance with any paperwork and consent forms.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE INTERVIEW:

Your child will meet with a specially trained forensic interviewer for a calm, conversational discussion.

This interview will be recorded to reduce the need for your child to repeat their story and will be shared with investigative agencies involved in the case.

While this recorded interview may not replace court testimony, it provides clear, detailed information that can support the case and aid in understanding your child's experience.

AFTER THE INTERVIEW:

After the interview, your child may need extra comfort or a calm environment. Plan a relaxing, enjoyable activity for afterward to help them wind down.

QUESTIONS?