April is Child Abuse Prevention Month - a time that reminds us to focus on supporting families because by doing so, we strengthen them and can prevent child abuse from happening. By being aware of the signs of potential abuse and neglect and by knowing the support networks in place, we can all contribute to a nurturing backdrop for our children's development and well- being.
Why Child Abuse Prevention Matters
Preventing child abuse not only protects children from immediate harm but also supports their overall well-being and development. Prevention efforts can also break the cycle of abuse, helping future generations grow up in healthier families and communities.
Strategies for Strengthening Families and Preventing Child Abuse
Here are a few ways to maintain strong families and help parents grow.
Educate Yourself and Your Children
There is no perfect parent, but knowing what to expect does make the job easier. Educate yourself about child development and parenting strategies that support physical, cognitive, language, social and emotional development. Also learn the signs of child abuse and teach your children about body autonomy and the difference between “safe” and “unsafe” touches. Encouraging open communication can make it easier for your child to come to you if something is wrong.
- Discover what to expect as your child grows.
- Try new skills and tips to help your child progress and thrive.
- Respond in a caring way when your child misbehaves.
- Learn about safe sleep and safe storage of guns and substances.
Be Strong in the Face of Stress
Parenting can be stressful. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise, meditation or talking to a friend or counselor.
- Take care of yourself and ask for help when you need it.
- Stop stress from getting in the way of providing loving care for your child.
- Enjoy time with your child and celebrate what you like about being a parent.
Nurture Caring Friendships
Having a network of friends, family and neighbors helps us feel secure, confident and empowered.
- Accept help from others and look for opportunities to help them in return. An easy example is trading babysitting shifts to give each other a break.
- Focus on relationships where you feel respected and appreciated. Build your skills in reaching out to others and resolving conflict.
Ask for Support When You Need It
Some problems are too big to solve alone. Knowing where to get help in the community can make life easier.
- Know what help is available.
- Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask for help when needed.
- Share information on resources with others.
- 211 Colorado is a good statewide site to look for help
Help Your Child Manage Feelings and Relationships
Help children develop skills so they can manage their emotions and build healthy relationships with their peers and adults.
- Respond warmly and consistently to your child.
- Allow your child to express their emotions.
- Model how to be kind and interact positively with others.
Be a Helping Hand
All of us play a fundamental role in strengthening families and prevent child abuse. Here are 50 ways that neighbors, community organizations, employers, people in the service industry, faith communities, and you can help strengthen families.
Says Lupita Cardoza, a Colorado parent who benefitted from community support: “I know how important it is to have a strong family unit for raising kids — and all parents need extra support sometimes. I definitely did, having nine kids to care for. My family is thriving and stronger because of the support I received through community programs and resources.”
Signs of potential abuse and neglect
Understanding the signs of potential abuse and neglect can help recognize if a child or youth is in a situation that threatens their well-being. It can also help us understand when to be a helping hand to a family who is experiencing a challenging situation and when to make the call to the Colorado Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline.
CO4Kids Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline
In addition to doing their part to help strengthen families, all Coloradans are encouraged to call the CO4Kids Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline (1-844-CO-4-Kids or 844-264-5437) if they suspect a child may be experiencing abuse or neglect. In 2023, the Colorado Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline received nearly 220,000 calls from concerned citizens.
ABOUT THE COLORADO DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES
The information in this article was provided by The Colorado Department of Human Services. The Colorado Department of Human Services connects people with assistance, resources and support for living independently in our state. We're the people who help people. For more information about our organization, visit the CDHS organizational structure page.
To learn more about child abuse and neglect prevention and activities happening around the state, you can visit CO4Kids.org.
