On the Front Lines of Preventing Abuse & Neglect
Professionals who work directly with families and children can play a huge part in promoting protective factors and providing the kind of support that can have a lasting impact in our communities. There is power in all of us to lead by example and provide positive interactions to our community’s youth.
Teachers, doctors, social workers – or anyone who has regular contact with children and families can help prevent abuse and neglect in a number of different ways, including:
- Promote Safe, Stable Environments
- Know the Warning Signs
- Reach Out To Reluctant Families
- Suspect Something. Say Something
Whether in a classroom or within the health system, providing a nurturing environment where a child feels safe can have a dramatic impact on their growth and development. The first step toward protecting children from abuse and neglect is to know what to look for. A child who is being abused or neglected may seem withdrawn, have recurrent unexplained injuries or often be absent from school.
Some families feel stigma associated with needing help and many are hesitant to talk about struggles they may be going through. Be a hand that reaches out to offer help they may be reluctant to ask for.
If you suspect that a child may be in a harmful situation, say something. The most important thing you can do to protect children is reporting any concerns to the proper authorities – such as local children services, police or by calling the Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 855-OH-CHILD.
