A call to action: Preventing child abuse

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, and according to the CDC, child abuse and neglect are common, affecting at least 1 in 7 children in the United States. It is estimated that in 2020, 1,750 children died in this country from abuse and neglect at a rate of 2.38 per 100,000 children in the population.

Child abuse is an important public health issue not only for the children affected, but because children who are abused are more likely to abuse their own children as adults. To break the cycle of abuse, we must work together to eliminate child abuse.

Fortunately, there are things that parents, caregivers, and trusted adults can do to help prevent child abuse. One thing that’s important is to validate the feelings that children have and listen to what they are saying. Sometimes abuse goes on because the parents may be in denial, or they may not believe the child. If the child is saying something, listen to them and believe them because it may be true.

For more ways you can take action to prevent child abuse, check out the Ten Ways to Help Prevent Child Abuse from Prevent Child Abuse America:

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 to 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

Find out whether your local library has parenting resources, and if it does not, offer to help obtain some.

7.      Promote programs in school

Teaching children, parents, and teachers prevention strategies can help to keep children safe.

8.      Monitor your child’s television, video, and internet viewing/usage

Excessively watching violent films, TV programs, and videos can harm young children.

9.      Volunteer at a local child abuse prevention program

For information about volunteer opportunities, call 1.800.CHILDREN or contact your local Prevent Child Abuse America chapter.

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.

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