5 ways YOU can help prevent child abuse

1. Be a nurturing parent:

Show your children that they are special, loved, and capable of following their dreams.

2. Help a friend, neighbor or relative:

Being a parent isn’t always easy. Offer a helping hand: take care of the kids, so the parents can rest or spend time together.

3. Help yourself:

When big and little problems pile up and you feel overwhelmed or out of control, take a time out. Don’t take it out on your child.

4. Volunteer at Kids House:

For information about volunteer opportunities call 407-324-3036.

5. Report suspected child abuse or neglect:

If you have reason to think a child has been or may be harmed, call and make a report: 1-800-96-ABUSE.

10 things to do instead of yelling or hitting

You don’t have to lift a hand to hurt your child. Words hit just as hard. The next time everyday pressures build up to the point that you might lash out, stop!

Try any of these simple alternatives:

Put your hands over your mouth. Count to 10.

Stop in your tracks. Press your lips together and breathe deeply.

Phone a friend.

Say the alphabet out loud.

If someone can watch the children, go outside and take a walk.

Take a hot bath or splash cold water on your face.

Pick up a pencil and write down your thoughts.

Put your child in a “time-out” for a few minutes.

Turn on the radio or TV.

Hug a pillow.

Teach your children how to do what’s right.

Remember to be patient. It takes a while for kids to catch on because they’re so little.

A Guide to Praising Children

Praising is a way of letting children know they have value as people, and their efforts in behaving and following the rules are appreciated. It’s important to praise children so they learn that who they are, and the things they do, are pleasing to parents. Praising children helps them to develop a personal sense of self-worth. There are two types of praise you can give your child.

Praise for Being: This lets children know you value them just for who they are. It is unconditional and given freely at any time.

Ideas for Praise for Being statements:

“I really love you!”

“You’re a kind person.”

“I’m so happy you’re my son!”

“You’re a wonderful daughter.”

Praise for Doing: This lets children know you appreciate and value their efforts and behaviors. You can praise your children’s behavior for something they tried and completed, or tried but didn’t quite succeed or finish. If you acknowledge your children’s efforts, they are more likely to try again.

Ideas for Praise for Doing statements:

“What a good job you did cleaning your room.”

“I’m really pleased to see you try so hard.”

“I’m so proud of the way you cooperated.”

“Thanks for walking the dog.”