Be a friend to a parent you know.
Be a friend to a child you know. Show you care.
Talk to your neighbors about looking out for one another’s children. Show that you are involved.
Give your used clothing, furniture and toys for use by another family. This can help relieve the stress of financial burdens that parents sometimes take out on their kids.
Volunteer your time for programs in your community, such as Kids House, that support children and families.
Contact your school district, library or faith group about support programs for parents and how you can help.
Wear a blue ribbon and tell people that it stands for the prevention of child abuse and neglect.
Call or write your elected officials and ask them to support funding for parent support and child abuse prevention programs.
Seem to be having economic, housing or personal problems
Are isolated from their family or community
Have difficulty controlling anger or stress
Are dealing with physical or mental health issues
Abuse alcohol or drugs
Appear uninterested in the care, nourishment or safety of their children
By helping parents who might be struggling with any of these challenges, you reduce the likelihood that their children will be abused or neglected. Reach out to the children, too, and show them that you care.
Nervousness around adults
Aggression toward adults or other children
Inability to stay awake or to concentrate for extended periods
Sudden, dramatic changes in personality or activities
Abnormal interest in sex
Frequent or unexplained bruises or injuries
Low self-esteem
Poor hygiene
If you see these signs in any children you know, reach out to them and to their parents and offer a helping hand.
Report Suspected abuse or neglect
If you suspect abuse or neglect may be occurring, report it.
If you think a child is in immediate danger, call the police.