A Shadow the Length of a Lifetime

“Child abuse casts a shadow the length of a lifetime. ~Herbert Ward

My younger three sons were blessed gifts of adoption. They were abused as infants and their special needs are a lifetime shadow. I was an abused child.

Please, don’t turn away from reading.

Child abuse is a topic of utmost importance with each of us holding a role of responsibility.

Yes, you can help prevent child abuse.

Your money, though important in funding programs, isn’t the most important thing you can give.

Your time…your promise to support parents and families before they reach crisis carries far more impact in the ultimate prevention of child abuse.

April is Child Abuse Prevention month.

Don’t simply *gasp* at the horror stories of child abuse.

Act.

Blame doesn’t help. Speaking ill of the depressed, alcohol and drug addicted, financially strained parents who have no support system, and as a result abuse their children, will not help prevent the abuse.

Act.

Please give your attention, your time, your promise to help prevent child abuse in America.

Anything you do to support kids and parents can help reduce the stress that often leads to abuse and neglect.

Child abuse and neglect occur in all segments of our society, but the risk factors are greater in families where parents:

* 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.

Volunteer your time and money for programs in your community that support children and families.

Raise the issue.

Recognize Warning Signs.

Report Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect.

If you need help or have questions about child abuse or child neglect, call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453) then push 1 to talk to a counselor.

The Hotline counselors are there 365 days a year to help kids, and adults who are worried about kids they suspect are being abused or neglected.

For even more helpful Prevention tips click here.

Thank you for reading. Won’t you please pledge to support child abuse prevention by doing?


Melody can be found at 5M4SN and at Slurping Life sharing photos and a few words from her special life.

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