How Does Your Garden Grow?
Nurturing A Safe and Healthy Environment for All Children
April is Child Abuse Awareness Month. The topic of abuse holds a great deal of emotion and can be an issue most would rather not talk about-which is why this awareness month is so important. Abuse can happen anywhere- within any home or setting where children are present. It does not discriminate. But there are ways to protect children and combat the problem of abuse.
We know prevention is possible.
Prevention begins by making a commitment to ensure a safe and healthy environment wherever young children live, play, attend school, or are involved in activities. This goal can be accomplished by educating ourselves and others on what child abuse is, knowing how to identify it, and learning what to do if we suspect a child is being abused or neglected. In addition to becoming more educated on the topic, we need to understand our responsibility for taking action to minimize the chance that abuse will happen.
CDP’s Social Service Department has put together the following tips developed from years of providing guidance and strategies to parents, caregivers, and teaching staff. These best practices are combined with information gathered from partner organizations that are fighting for the protection of children.
Everyone Can:
Educate Yourself and Others: There is a wide variety of resources available to help you learn about the different forms of child abuse and what to do if you suspect a child is being abused. Attend a webinar, read an article, or check out a few of our linked resources below. Then don’t be shy… share it with others!
Give Your Time & Promote Safety- Close to Home: Parenting is HARD! Simple supports for children and parents can be the best way to prevent child abuse. Provide a listening ear to a stressed-out parent; offer to take a young family member out for ice cream or to the park.
Give Your Time & Promote Safety- Within Your Community: Get involved in your community- start with the places you already know, such as a local school, house of worship, or community center. Ask if they are taking any actions to stop violence and how you can get involved. Volunteer to help give children safe activities in the community by starting a playgroup or after-school programs like art, music, or sports. Look for local organizations that help children and their families and see how you can volunteer your time for a special project or event. Volunteer to be a mentor, or provide respite care.
Families Can:
Help Children Handle Strong Feelings: Tantrums rarely happen at convenient times, and big emotions can erupt when you least expect them. Helping children to name and talk through their feelings in non-stressful times will help them when they do have a bigger meltdown.
Use Discipline Thoughtfully: Remember that discipline is a method of teaching your child to change behavior. Never discipline your child when you are upset. Give yourself time to calm down. Use privileges to encourage good behavior and provide strategies to help your child regain control.
Reflect and Examine Your Behavior: All abuse is not physical. Words and actions can inflict deep, lasting wounds. Use your words and actions to nurture young children’s development and show children and other adults that conflicts can be settled without hitting or yelling. Learn to recognize the signs that you need a break, and be sure to take one when you need it.
Nurture Your Network, Take Care of Yourself & Reach Out: Let’s say it again… parenting is HARD! Who’s your go-to person? What other adults can you call when you’re feeling big feelings? What is one small thing you do for yourself each day? Nurturing your connections and taking care of yourself are important ways to refill your bucket at the end of a long day (or a long morning). Don’t be afraid to ask for help! There are many organizations and community programs available that can help provide positive parenting techniques, support groups, and help you when you’re feeling the most challenged as a parent.
Teach Clear Boundaries: Young children need to know that their bodies are an important part of who they are- and that no one should hurt or touch them in a way that makes them uncomfortable. Use simple language for little ones, and continue to provide this message as they grow older. Teach them to set boundaries- and develop the confidence to say "stop" or "no".
Be Open and Listen: Let your child know that they matter. Abuse can happen anywhere- even in places or with people you thought were safe. Let your child know that they can always speak openly with you in case they’re experiencing abuse or neglect. They may talk about abuse/neglect indirectly. Watch for other signs in children’s behavior that may signal abuse. Let them know that they don’t need to keep secrets or feel guilty if someone does something confusing or uncomfortable to them.
Child abuse prevention has its challenges, but it’s helpful to know that it can be accomplished by taking a very simple, yet thoughtful approach to support families and ensuring safe spaces for children. Promoting children’s healthy growth and development, and providing families with support and positive parenting skills, are just some of the many ways to keep children safe from harm. Be a voice in support of these efforts in your community.
Resources:
What to Know about Child Abuse by Healthy Children
If you suspect a child is being abused, call
NJ’s Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-NJ-Abuse