ROCHESTER, N.Y. — While the holidays are supposed to be a fun and happy time for children, that may be far from the case for some kids.

Experts say the opportunity for abuse against children goes up during the holidays and there are a number of reasons for it. There may be stress triggered by family, finances or other issues. Parties and events may trigger a rise in alcohol consumption. Children are also off from school and home for extended periods of time.

What You Need To Know

  • Experts say the opportunity for abuse against children goes up during the holiday season

  • The Child Advocacy Center of Rochester says children need supervision during a holiday break, including their online activity

  • The agency reports that 1 in 7 children will experience abuse of some kind and 1 in 10 will experience sexual abuse by the time they are 18 years old

“And then also, just when you have a number of family and friends and get-togethers, children have more exposure to people they may not see on a regular basis, but who they know," said the President and CEO of the Child Advocacy Center of Greater Rochester Dr. Daniele Lyman-Torres. "And you may not always know what your children are doing during those times of big parties and visitations -- especially around people that you know. Because we do know that more than 90% of children who experienced sexual abuse know who their abuser is and they know that person more closely."

Dr. Lyman-Torres says children do still need supervision during a holiday break. She says parents should especially keep track of their online activity.

The Child Advocacy Center says it is getting calls from parents asking about the behavior of their child and looking for guidance, which the professionals there can offer. Also, experts say parents should trust their children’s instincts. If children don’t want to give someone a hug or sit next to them, do not make them.

"Parents know their children best," Dr. Lyman-Torres said. "And so, it's really important that parents watch for changes in behavior. If there's someone who comes to your home and the child seems to withdraw or behave as if they're uncomfortable, don't ignore that. You know, pay attention to that. Make sure that your child understands that they can talk to you about why they might be uncomfortable, what might be worrying them."

She says parents must be vigilant because the prevalence of abuse is staggering and it happens in every community throughout the country.

The agency reports that 1 in 7 children will experience abuse of some kind and 1 in 10 will experience sexual abuse by the time they are 18 years old.