Preventing Child Abuse and Neglect
Anything you do to support kids and parents can help
reduce the stress that often leads to abuse and neglect.
Ten Ways to Help Prevent Child Abuse
1. Be a nurturing parent.
Children need to know that they are special, loved and capable of following their dreams.
2. Help a friend, neighbor or relative.
Being a parent isn’t easy. Offer a helping hand take care of the children, so the parent(s) can rest or spend time together.
3. Help yourself.
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 kid.
4. If your baby cries…
It can be frustrating to hear your baby cry. Learn what to do if your baby won’t stop crying. Never shake a baby – shaking a child may result in severe injury or death.
5. Get involved.
Ask your community leaders, clergy, library and schools to develop services to meet the needs of healthy children and families.
6. Help to develop parenting resources at your local library.
7. Promote programs in school.
Teaching children, parents and teachers prevention strategies can help to keep children safe.
8. Share the Family Supportline number (1-800-CHILDREN) with a parent who seems stressed out.
9. Volunteer at a local child abuse prevention program.
For information about programs in your area, call 1.800.CHILDREN.
10. Report suspected abuse or neglect.
If you have reason to believe a child has been or may be harmed, call your local department of children and family services or your local police department.
Some more actions you can take to help prevent child abuse and neglect -
- Help distract restless children in a waiting room or line.
- Write a letter to your Congressman to ensure adequate funding for the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA)
- Sponsor a workshop on child abuse prevention.
- Volunteer for Pinwheels for Prevention activities in your community.
We educate, connect, and mobilize Colorado communities and families so our children can grow and develop free from abuse and neglect.
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