Julie K. Federico

Professional Background

Julie Federico is an author, speaker, and nationally recognized advocate for child abuse and violence prevention. She holds a Master of Science in Counseling and a Bachelor of Social Work from Indiana University. Julie began her professional career as a middle school counselor in Jefferson County, Colorado, where she worked closely with students and families navigating academic, emotional, and social challenges.

In 1999, Julie served as a first responder during the Columbine High School shooting—an experience that profoundly shaped her life and career. Witnessing the long-term impact of trauma on children, families, and school communities strengthened her commitment to trauma-informed care, early intervention, and prevention-based education. Her years working directly in schools provided her with deep insight into the emotional and physical risks children face every day, as well as the gaps that often exist in early prevention efforts.

This front-line experience ultimately catalyzed Julie’s transition from school counseling into prevention-focused authorship and public education, allowing her to extend her impact far beyond the walls of the school system.

Publications and Impact

Julie is the author of several acclaimed children’s books that address sensitive and complex topics using clear, developmentally appropriate language. Her first book, Some Parts Are NOT for Sharing, focuses on body safety, consent, and child abuse prevention for young children. The book has sold over 18,000 copies and continues to be widely used by parents, educators, counselors, and child advocacy professionals.

Her growing body of work includes titles addressing child abuse prevention, domestic violence prevention, anger management, school violence prevention, friendship and social skills, and diversity and inclusion. Many of her books are available in both English and Spanish, expanding their accessibility and reach. Julie has also contributed to academic literature, including her 2021 article, How to Talk to Toddlers About Child Abuse Prevention, published in the US-China Law Review.

Julie’s work has received multiple awards and honors, including first-place recognition from the Colorado Independent Publishers Association EVVY Awards and honorable mentions from the New England Book Festival. In 2025, Anger is OKAY, Violence is NOT received the International Impact Book Award.

Advocacy and Public Speaking

A sought-after national speaker, Julie presents at conferences, schools, Head Start programs, and parent organizations across the United States. Her work has been featured at the Prevent Child Abuse Conference, the “Shattering the Silence” U.S. Tour, and the Hawaii International Summit on Preventing, Assessing & Treating Trauma Across the Lifespan.

Known for her direct yet compassionate approach, Julie equips adults with practical, trauma-informed strategies for discussing abuse prevention with young children and for breaking the silence that too often surrounds these issues.

Mission and Philosophy

Julie believes prevention begins with education and that even the most difficult topics can be safely introduced to young children when delivered thoughtfully and appropriately. Her mission is to ensure that all children understand body safety, boundaries, and their right to speak up—empowering them to protect themselves and others.

Julie Federico

Author & Speaker