Child abuse and neglect can be prevented!
PREVENTING ABUSE
Child abuse is a problem that concerns us all! Can it be prevented? YES! Child abuse and neglect can be prevented or stopped through the efforts of schools, neighbors, families and the community.
To help us prevent child abuse, here are things you can do:
• Understand the causes of child abuse and learn all you can about abuse and neglect.
• Learn to identify the warning signs that signal that a child is being abused.
• Report any known or suspected case of child abuse immediately.
• Seek help if you feel you are at risk of abusing a child.
• Be a friend to a child or parent in need.
• Alert others to the problem and help them to recognize and understand the effects of physical, sexual and emotional abuse and neglect.
TIPS FOR PARENTS
Here are some tips to help parents prevent or detect abuse:
• Be involved in your children’s activities.
• Notice when someone spends a lot of time with your child. Talk with your child about what they do, who else is there, what kind of games they play, etc.
• Believe your child. Listen seriously and sensitively to what your child says.
• Teach your child to “Say no, get away, and to tell someone,” if anyone tries to touch him or her inappropriately.
• Tell your child, “Your body belongs to you.”
• Explain to your child not to keep secrets that feel scary or uncomfortable.
• Go through rules with your babysitter while your child is present. ALSO REMEMBER: • Bad things sometimes happen, even when we do our best to avoid them. • Discuss abuse prevention in a constructive manner, just as you would other safety concerns. Fear does not keep children safe. • If abuse occurs, remember that it is not the child’s fault. • Report the abuse and make sure to seek medical help immediately. • Listen to what your child has to say, and remember to remain calm.
REPORTING ABUSE
What to do if you believe your child, or any child, is being abused or neglected:
• Obtain medical attention for the child immediately, if necessary.
• Insure that the child has no further contact with anyone you believe may be committing the abuse or neglect.
• Notify the Child Abuse Hotline (800-422-4453) and/or local police.
• Cooperate with the authorities investigating your report.
• Insure that the child receives all necessary medical and psychological help. Check in the Yellow Pages under Mental Health, or contact your local United Way.
TIPS FOR KIDS
Whether you are a kid, a parent, a teacher, coach or someone who works with kids, it’s good to have resources to deal with scary, overwhelming situations.
If you need help or would like to talk to someone about what you’re feeling, call the PIRC Helpline at 1-800-CHILDREN, 9am-10pm.
Here are some ideas for kids who are feeling upset or stressed:
• Talk to your school counselor, or a friend.
• Draw a picture about how you feel. • Write in your diary. • Get more sleep if you’re tired. • Read a book or listen to music. • Exercise, walk, bike or shoot baskets.
• Try to talk and listen to the person who made you feel this way.
• Feelings are always OK. But no matter how bad you feel, don’t hurt yourself or someone else.
• When someone does something that makes you feel bad, use an ‘I’ message: “I get frustrated when you won’t listen to my side of the story.”
• If you’re feeling bad about yourself, turn bad into good. When you think something bad about yourself, try to remember something good too.
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to recognize that we each can play a part in promoting the social and emotional well-being of children and families in our community.Today, and on the following two Saturdays, the Freeman will provide information on the causes and extent of child abuse, as well as steps we all can take to protect and nourish our most vulnerable children.
CONTENT ON THESE PAGES OBTAINED FROM THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES