Everyday Tips for Preventing Child Abuse

Individuals

Support families with children

Be a friend for new parents, single moms, special needs families – baby sit, visit, cook meals, etc.

Donate clothes, toys, furniture, etc., directly to families with children to relieve financial burdens

Encourage good parenting when you see it.

Be a friend to a child – remember names, smile, talk to them, note something special about each one.

Help parents “catch” their child being good.

Volunteer – be a lunch buddy, a big brother, a coach, scout leader, CASA.

Support child friendly legislation – hold elected officials accountable.

React to Child Abuse in Public Places:

• Talk to the adult. Offer to help. Say things to distract from the situation, such as “Children can be trying,” or “She has beautiful eyes.”
• Talk to the child.
• Praise the parent and child – avoid negative remarks or looks. 

Report child abuse – 491-2545 or law enforcement.

Groups

Civic Clubs host foster parents or child welfare workers.

Schedule Child Abuse Awareness Presentations.

Employers

Fortune magazine each year publishes a survey of "Most Admired Corporations." In that survey "Corporate Citizenship" is ranked with "Financial Soundness" and "Quality of Management" as a significant factor in establishing a company's public credibility.

Schedule Child Abuse Awareness Presentations for employees (how can you keep your kids safe).

 Family Friendly Employment Practices, such as:

• Family Leave Benefits – paid or unpaid leave for fathers with new born children, adoptive parents, during holidays, for school activities. Time off for volunteering. 
• Flex Time.
• Employee Support – EAP’s, scholarships and education assistance, child care services or vouchers, recreational activities for families.

 

Principles of Excellence in Corporate Community Service – Points of Light Foundation
Fortune