Get Involved
There has been a shift in public attitude in recent years from, "why don't you stop this abuse?" to "how can I help stop this abuse?"
Now is the time for people and organizations who are dedicated to protecting children to acknowledge the importance of families and communities working together to help prevent all forms of child abuse and neglect.
- Learn more about child abuse prevention. By becoming knowledgeable, you might be more able to recognize warning signs of abuse, risk factors, or inappropriate behavior by adults. You also might want to join the efforts of your local child abuse prevention council.
- Work to Prevent All Violence. Join – or start – a group that works to prevent crime and violence in your community. Send a message that no violence will be tolerated in your community.
- Support Local Efforts to Help Families. Anything you do to help can reduce the stress that often leads to abuse and neglect. Donate your used clothing, furniture and toys for use by another family. Offer extra support to families when they need it, as in times of illness, job loss, housing problems and other stressors.
- Report suspected abuse or neglect. If you have reason to believe a child has been or may be harmed, report it could save a child’s life.
- Be a nurturing parent. Children need to know that they are special, loved and capable of following their dreams. Make sure your child feels loved and secure, even when he or she did something wrong. Encourage your child instead of criticizing. Praise his or her talents and achievements. Spend time with your child doing things you both enjoy.
- Seek help if you need it. When the big and little problems of your everyday life pile up to the point you feel overwhelmed and out of control – take time out. Don’t take it out on your child. Talk to a friend, clergy, health care provider or other parents. Social service agencies staff are there to help and they understand it’s not easy to be a parent.
- Attend a playgroup where parents and caregivers can meet in a supportive environment and your child will build social skills, independence, and self-confidence.
- Visit your local library when Story Time or Story Telling activities are scheduled. Your children will enjoy new stories, songs, and friendships
- Communicate your concerns with your child’s teacher or school administrator
- Know your environment and your neighbors. Learn who spends time with your children. Young victims know their offenders 80-90% of the time. They are family members, friends, neighbors, and babysitters.
- Monitor your child’s television, video and online viewing. Children of any age can be impacted by witnessing violence. Exposure to violence leaves children feeling unsafe, scared and helpless. They may learn to view the world as a scary, unpredictable place at a time when they should be nurtured, exploring the world and learning new things.
- Be a friend to a parent you know. Being a parent isn’t easy. Ask how their children are doing. Draw on your own experiences to provide reassurance and support. If a parent seems to be struggling, offer to baby-sit or run errands, or just lend a friendly ear. Show you understand.
- Be a friend to a child you know. Remember their name. Smile when you talk with them. Ask them about their day at school. Show you care.