Take steps top prevent child abuse

To the editor:

Child Abuse Prevention Month officially kicks off today.

Children are our future and as a community we have a responsibility to help each child reach their full potential. Child abuse and neglect affects children of every age, gender, race and income level, although research has identified certain factors identified with an increased risk of abuse and neglect.

Risk factors that contribute to abuse and neglect of children:

•Immaturity of parent

•Unrealistic parenting expectations

•Lack of understanding of child development

•Stress

•Substance abuse

•Isolation

•Intergenerational patterns of abuse or neglect.

Child abuse and neglect can be prevented by enhancing existing skills and by connecting families to community supports. Protective factors include:

•Parent and/or youth resilience

•Social connections

•Knowledge of parenting and child development

•Concrete supports in times of need (community agencies)

•A healthy bond between parent and child

As a community member, you have the ability to assume an active role in preventing child abuse and neglect in Jay County.

Here are a few ways that community members can help prevent abuse and neglect:

•Reach out to parents that you know and offer a hand or emotional support.

•Volunteer time to programs that help parents.

•Let all of the children in your life know that they can depend on you.

•Advocate for community services to help families.

•Report suspected child abuse or neglect.

•Consider becoming a foster parent.

If you suspect abuse or neglect, please call the Indiana Department of Child Services Hotline at (800) 800-5556.

Child abuse: see it, hear it, report it.

Amanda Hartman

Director

Indiana Department of Child Services Jay County office