This page is designed to help you understand what Children’s Cove does, what the process looks like, and how we support children and families along the way.
You don’t need to have all the answers right now. Our team is here to help guide you through each step at a pace that feels right for your child.
How We
Get Involved
We’re here to help when there are concerns about a child’s safety.
Children’s Cove becomes involved when there are concerns that a child may have been harmed or may have witnessed harm. This may include:
- Sexual abuse
- Physical abuse
- Witness to or Victim of Domestic violence
- Sexual exploitation
Most cases are referred by law enforcement, the Department of Children and Families (DCF), or the District Attorney’s Office, although anyone in the community can contact us if they are worried about a child.
What Happens
First
We work with families to take the next step at the right pace for the child.
When we receive a referral, we:
- Review the concern with the referring agency
- Contact the non-offending parent or caregiver
- Determine if the child is ready for a forensic interview
- Schedule a visit at a time that works for the child
All visits take place at our confidential, child-friendly location.
Who Is Involved
Each case is handled by a Multidisciplinary Team (MDT). This team may include:
- A trained forensic interviewer
- A detective or sexual assault investigator
- A prosecutor from the District Attorney’s Office
- A Pediatric Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (PediSANE)
- A mental health professional
Depending on the situation:
- A DCF investigator may be involved
Ongoing Support for
Your Family
Support doesn’t stop after the investigation.
Children’s Cove continues to support children and families by:
- Connecting families with trauma-informed therapists
- Helping with referrals and community resources
- Providing victim advocacy to support healthy outcomes
Medical Care,
Focused on Comfort
Your child’s health and comfort come first.
Children’s Cove provides on-site medical care through a Pediatric Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (PediSANE). These exams are:
- Non-invasive
- Child-centered
- Focused on safety and comfort
The nurse documents medical findings without using invasive tools or asking investigative questions. When needed, we also work with your child’s pediatrician to support their overall wellbeing.
Get Involved with Children’s Cove
Join us in creating a safer, more supportive community for children and families across Cape Cod and the Islands.