The More You Know

CHILD ABUSE

"Of all the words you teach your child, there's one that can prevent them from becoming the victim of abuse. Teach them it's ok to say 'no' and tell a trusted adult." - Mariska Hargitay, Law & Order: SVU

What You Should Know...

Every year, thousands of children are victims of physical or sexual abuse. Child abuse is a life-changing experience for a young person. Children's responses to abuse may vary depending on the availability of family and community support and the child's resilience. Once their safety is assured, most children can overcome the effects of trauma through professional counseling or other supportive interventions.

Parents and adults should speak openly with their children about abuse and understand the difficulties their son or daughter may have in reporting such incidents. Violence and abuse are difficult subjects to discuss, especially when children are involved. Beginning that dialogue is an important part of bringing these issues out of the darkness so that they can be appropriately addressed. A simple conversation about the signs of child abuse and neglect can go a long way toward building a concerned, educated community that protects its children.

What You Can Do...

Teach kids to say 'no'
Tell your kids to tell a trusted adult right away if anyone does something that makes them scared or uncomfortable.

Parents: Trust your Instincts
If you feel like something is not right, follow up. You could prevent your child from becoming a victim of abuse.

Open communication
Talk to your children, listen to their stories and ask for their opinions. Listening respectfully to your kids will make them more comfortable going to you when a threatening situation arises.

Use Proper Names
Speak to your children about using the proper names for their body parts. Armed with information, children are better able to report abuse to you.

Be a good role model
Deal with conflicts in the home peacefully and manage your anger. Talk to your children about how to solve conflicts in non-aggressive ways.

Educate your family
When viewing violent situations in the media or in video games, discuss it with your children. Make sure they know the consequences of violence in the real world.

To Know More...

Prevent Child Abuse America
www.preventchildabuse.org

Joyful Heart Foundation
www.joyfulheartfoundation.org