Prevention

What Can YOU DO to Prevent Child Abuse?

Child abuse is a HUGE problem. Yet, EVERYONEcan do something about it

Who Me?

  1. Be a friend to a parent you know. Ask how their children are doing. Draw on your own experiences to provide reassurance and support. Offer to watch a newborn for an hour so a new parent can take a needed nap.
  2. Ask, “How can I help?”
  3. Find out about local resources and refer families
  4. Give out a number to a help line
  5. Get involved – support prevention programs by voting, talking to legislators and community leaders
  6. Donate – Support sparsely funded programs as much as you can give to families in need. Give your used clothing, furniture and toys for use by another family.
  7. Volunteer – Understaffed programs value your time and effort.
  8. Provide a Safe Place – Be a support, a friend, and a listener to families
  9. Be a friend to a child you know. Remember their names. Smile when you talk with them. Show them you care.
  10. If you suspect abuse, report it! 1-800-422-4453 Child abuse rarely stops without intervention and help.

 

For Parents and Caregivers

  • Take time out if you need to
  • Take care of yourself – eat nutritious meals, exercise, pray or meditate, and get plenty of rest.
  • Read books or articles on parenting, or take a class
  • Learn what soothes a crying baby – learn about Shaken Baby Syndrome
  • Think about how your words or actions may affect your child
  • Listen to music
  • Take a shower or a bath
  • Journal
  • Get a massage
  • Find out resources in your community
  • Join a parenting support group
  • Call someone you can trust
  • Get to know your neighbors
  • Ask for help
  • BREATHE

What do I do if I think someone is abusing a child?
If a child discloses that he or she has been abused by someone, it is important that you listen to them most of all.

Do Not

  • Investigate
  • Ask leading questions (a question that suggests the answer or contains the information the questioner is looking for – That man touched you, didn’t he?)
  • Make promises
  • Notify the parents or the caretaker

Do

  • Provide a safe environment (be comforting, welcoming, and a good listener).
  • Tell the child it was not his/her fault
  • Listen carefully
  • Document the child’s exact quotes
  • Be supportive, not judgmental
  • Know your limits
  • Tell the truth and make no promises
  • Ask ONLY four questions
    • What happened?
    • Who did this to you?
    • Where were you when this happened?
    • When did this happen?
  • Asking any additional questions may contaminate a case!

Report it!

  • Call your local law enforcement agency
  • Call your local Child Protective Services Agency