CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
Many times when we read about child abuse we feel helpless and overwhelmed by statistics. Here are eight things you can do as an individual to help prevent abuse of children:
Know what child abuse is and what the signs are. Physical and sexual abuse clearly constitute maltreatment, but so does neglect or the failure of parents or other caregivers to provide a child with needed food, clothing and care. Children can also be emotionally abused when they are rejected, berated or continuously isolated. Unexplained injuries aren't the only signs of abuse; depression, fear of a certain adult, difficulty trusting others or making friends, sudden changes in eating or sleeping patterns, inappropriate sexual behavior, poor hygiene, secrecy and hostility are often signs of family problems and may indicate a child is being neglected or physically, sexually or emotionally abused.
Report abuse. If you witness a child being harmed or see evidence of abuse, or if a child tells you about abuse, make a report to your state's child protective services department or local police. When talking to a child about abuse, listen carefully. Assure the child that he or she did the right thing by telling an adult and affirm that he or she is not responsible for what happened.
Invest in kids. Encourage leaders in the community to be supportive of children and families. Ask employers to provide family-friendly work environments. Ask your local and national lawmakers to support legislation to better protect our children and to improve their lives.
Volunteer your time and get involved with other parents in your community. Help vulnerable children and their families. Simple support for children and parents can be the best way to prevent child abuse. Afterschool activities, parent education classes, mentoring programs and respite care are some of the many ways to keep children safe from harm. Be a voice in support of these efforts in your community.
Discipline your children thoughtfully but never discipline your child when you are upset. Allow yourself time to calm down and remember that discipline is a way to teach your child. Use privileges to encourage good behavior and time-outs to help your child regain control. Both words and actions can inflict deep, lasting wounds; use your actions to show children and other adults that conflicts can be settled without hitting or yelling.
Support prevention programs. Too often, intervention occurs only after abuse is reported. Greater investments are needed in programs that have been proven to stop the abuse before it occurs; such as family counseling and home visits by nurses who provide assistance for newborns and their parents.
Write, visit, fax, phone or e-mail your elected officials. Request that your governor, state legislators, county commissioners and mayor proclaim the month of April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. Notify your U.S. representative and senators about activities to memorialize children lost to violence.
For more information regarding child abuse issues, call Jim Hernandez, Family Advocacy Outreach manager, at 963-6504.