April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. The most important thing we can do to help children thrive is to support families before they reach a crisis.
5 ways to help prevent child abuse
- Be a nurturing parent. Children need to know that they are special, loved, and capable of following their dreams.
- Help a friend, neighbor, or relative. Being a parent isn’t easy. Offer a helping hand to take care of the children or offer emotional support with non-judgmental listening.
- 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.
- 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.
- Discipline your children thoughtfully. Never discipline your child when you are upset. Discipline is a way to teach your child. Use privileges to encourage good behavior and time-outs to help your child regain control
