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Historically, government agencies have taken the punishment tactic. By identifying instances of abuse, removing the child from the home, and punishing the parents, it was believed that the cases could be substantially reduced. But research shows that this is not the only approach. Preventing situations before they happen is a much more effective strategy.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Children’s Bureau (DHHS) has defined five steps for reducing instances of child abuse: nurturing children, teaching parents, handling stress, offering emotional support and offering physical support. The DHHS feels that entire communities can contribute to educating new parents, and supporting parents who may need assistance. By helping in our own communities, all citizens can assist in the prevention of this terrible crime.

Many new parents may be overwhelmed and under-educated about their role in their children’s lives. By teaching parents to nurture their children, the DHHS hopes that parents and children will develop a strong emotional bond to each other, resulting in a more loving environment. Even babies understand these deep bonds.

“A child’s relationship with a consistent, caring adult in the early years is associated later in life with better academic grades, healthier behaviors, more positive peer interactions, and an increased ability to cope with stress,” says the DHHS. Parents will be less likely to abuse, and children are less likely to become abusers themselves.

In addition, the DHHS believes that parent workshops play a pivotal role in the reduction of child abuse. When parents are unfamiliar with handling children, they may become scared or frustrated, and lash out at the very people that they are supposed to protect. Helpful articles, convenient workshops and group learning opportunities, can teach parents how to raise their children, retain their patience and understand the mindset of a young child. Even regular safety classes, such as car seat check-ups and safety fairs, can provide parents and children with the tools that they need for success.

Resources for Parents
The Garner Police Department will hold its Public Safety Day at the Lakes in May. On Saturday, May 10, join the Garner Police at Lake Benson Park from 10:30 a.m. -1 p.m. They have planned a wide variety of safety education activities, including a display of their equipment, information about how to care for injuries and child ID kits will be available. Children will also enjoy playing on the inflatables.
The Wake County government is offering several mini-festivals in honor of National Child Abuse Prevention month.

On April 21-25, visit the Sunnybrook Public Health Center in Raleigh (car seat check on Thursday, April 24, 1-3 p.m.). April 28-May 2, visit the Southern Regional Center in Fuquay-Varina (car seat check on Wednesday, April 30, 1-3 p.m.). Both festivals will be held from 8:30 a.m.-5:15 p.m.

The National Exchange Club Foundation (NECF) uses a child-friendly tool, Time Out Teddy, to teach both parents and children about good parenting. The children love Teddy because he is a lovable, huggable bear, and they can practice good parenting skills themselves. Time Out Teddy’s brochure offers parenting advice on a variety of subjects. For more information, visit NECF at http://www.nationalexchangeclub.com.