Child Abuse Prevention Month

Child Abuse Prevention Month

Wednesday, April 11, 2018

Child abuse is a serious issue worldwide, and unfortunately, it also happens in Indiana. It affects children of every age, gender, race and financial status. Each member of every community throughout Indiana is responsible to protect Hoosier children from harm.

In 1983, to help bring awareness to abuse and neglect, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Child Abuse Prevention Month increases awareness about child abuse, provides solutions to prevent child abuse and teaches people the warning signs of child abuse.

According to the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS), there are several risk factors that contribute to abuse or neglect of a child, including immaturity of a parent, unrealistic parenting expectations, stress, substance abuse and isolation.

To help combat this prevalent issue, DCS offers several prevention programs.

  • Healthy Families Indiana is a voluntary home visitation program designed to promote healthy families and children through a variety of services, including child development, access to health care and parent education.
  • Community Partners for Child Safety is a statewide prevention program designed to strengthen the family unit and build support services. It is a voluntary, free and home-based service to connect families with resources.
  • Youth Service Bureaus and Safe Place provide a variety of programs aimed at preventing delinquent behavior in teenagers.

Hoosiers can also help prevent this unacceptable behavior by following these guidelines:

  • Reach out to parents you know and offer a hand or emotional support
  • Volunteer time to programs that help parents
  • Advocate for community services to help families
  • Consider becoming a foster parent

Most importantly, if you suspect abuse or neglect, call the Indiana Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1-800-800-5556. It is important to be able to recognize the signs of abuse and neglect and know how to appropriately respond. You can visit http://www.in.gov/dcs/3486.htm to learn more about Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Month and ways to get involved.