Child Abuse Awareness & Prevention

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. Here are some important tips to consider: 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… 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. Monitor your child’s TV and video viewing. Watching violent films and TV programs can harm young children. 9. Volunteer at a local child abuse prevention program. To volunteer 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 family services or the police department.