April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month
During the month of April, we recognize National Child Abuse Prevention Month (NCAPM) and the importance of communities working together to help families thrive and prevent child maltreatment. Throughout the year, communities are encouraged to increase awareness about child and family well-being and work together to implement effective strategies that support families and prevent child abuse and neglect.
Here are ten ways to prevent child abuse from preventchildabuse.com
10 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
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 & 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.
Additional Resources