Child abuse occurs at every socioeconomic level, across ethnic and cultural lines, within all religions and at all levels of education. Children who have been abused and neglected are at risk of continuing the cycle of abuse with their own children.
It is estimated that a report of child abuse is made every ten seconds. According to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Administration on Children, Youth and Families, Children’s Bureau. (2010). Child Maltreatment 2009:
- During Federal fiscal year 2009, an estimated 3.3 million referrals, involving the alleged maltreatment of approximately 6.0 million children, were received by CPS agencies. Of these referrals, 61.9 percent were screened in for a response by CPS agencies.
- The overall rate of child fatalities was 2.34 deaths per 100,000 children
What Can You Do?
PARENTS
- Be available. Keep the lines of communication open with your child.
- Learn about healthy child development and set realistic expectations for your child.
- Try to discipline without physical force. Be open to new parenting strategies.
- Learn stress management techniques – meditation, deep breathing, listening to music, exercising, walking, etc.
- Seek safe, quality childcare for your child.
- Develop a support system. Do not isolate yourself.
- Enjoy your child. Have fun together.
- Take time for yourself.
COMMUNITY MEMBERS
- Know the signs of child abuse and neglect.
- Be a friend. Support new parents and struggling parents.
- Volunteer with a local child abuse prevention agency.
- Support programs that support children and families.
- Promote child abuse prevention in your community.
- Start a Parenting Book Club (read and discuss parenting books or swap parenting books)
- Babysit for a parent who needs down time.
- Report any abuse or neglect you see to the proper authorities.
We understand that every family is unique. This list is meant to get us talking and thinking – it is by no means an exhaustive list of strategies. We would love to hear from you about other ways to help prevent child abuse and neglect. #StopChild Abuse