“By protecting his secrecy, it was we who had given the Forest King his power. But not anymore.”
What did Milo do to finally make the Forest King go away?
The Forest King
A short film created to encourage children to speak out against sexual abuse.
It is only when victims remain silent that the Forest King has power.
Discussion guide
Questions to ask after watching
To help children connect with the film's message, consider engaging them with the following questions.
“You must never speak of him, and you must return whenever he desires.”
Milo promised never to tell anyone about the Forest King. When Milo told his mama, do you think he did the right thing?
“He offers a deal. It comes with a price.”
Is there anyone in your life who makes you keep secrets?
If you were in Milo's place, which adults in your life could you tell about the Forest King?
Milo's mama didn't listen to Milo at first; she didn't understand. If you tell an adult about a problem you're having, and they don't listen the first time, what should you do?
“I felt powerless to stop it, so I never spoke out until it was too late for me to heal.”
At the end, the Forest King's mark disappeared from Milo and Katie, but not from the Owl. Why do you think this might have happened? Why should you tell a trusted adult right away?
Where to turn
More resources & information
Organizations working to prevent child sexual abuse and to support the children and families affected by it.
childwelfare.gov
Child Welfare Information Gateway promotes the safety, permanency, and well-being of children, youth, and families by connecting child welfare, adoption, and related professionals as well as the public to information, resources, and tools covering topics on child welfare, child abuse and neglect, out-of-home care, adoption, and more.
d2l.org
Darkness to Light is a non-profit committed to empowering adults to prevent child sexual abuse.
preventchildabuse.org
Prevent Child Abuse America is the nation's oldest and largest organization committed to preventing child abuse and neglect before it happens. They promote programs and resources informed by science that enable kids, families, and entire communities to thrive.
From the film
Artwork
