(Joplin, MO) – Child abuse is a severe public health problem that affects one in seven children. No community, neighborhood, or family is immune from the impact of child abuse. But, the good news is child abuse is preventable!
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. This month and throughout the year, Children’s Center of Southwest Missouri encourages all individuals and organizations to play a role in making our community a better place for children and families. By ensuring that parents have the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to care for their children, we can help promote children and youth’s social and emotional well-being and prevent child maltreatment within families and communities.
Protective factors are the strengths and resources families draw on during difficult times to shield them from life’s stresses. Research shows that when parents possess protective factors, the risk for neglect and abuse diminishes, and optimal outcomes for children, youth, and families are promoted. Major protective factors include knowledge of parenting, knowledge of child development, parental resilience, social connections, and concrete supports.
“April is a time to celebrate the important role that communities play in shining a light on the importance of protecting children and strengthening families,” said Desireè Breidenstein, Community Outreach Coordinator. “Everyone’s participation is critical. Creating ways to connect with families is the best thing our community can do to strengthen families and prevent child abuse and neglect.”
For more information about child abuse prevention programs and activities during the month of April, and throughout the year, contact Children’s Center of Southwest Missouri.
About Children’s Center:
Children’s Center is a not-for-profit organization providing a safe, child-focused setting for investigating and treating child abuse in Southwest Missouri.
Reference:
Children’s Center
417.623.2292
www.childrens-center.org
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