Last year in Indiana, more than 63,000 children were reported as being abused or neglected and over one-third of those were substantiated. Thirty-six deaths were documented due to abuse and neglect, most often at the hands of a family member or friend. In Kosciusko County, the DCS investigated three deaths, one of which was documented and tried just last month.
While it is important to take note of these statistics and to learn from them, it is perhaps even more important to prevent abuse and neglect from happening in the first place. That's why April has been designated Indiana Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Awareness Month. Prevention is possible, and we encourage Kosciusko County citizens to join us in the effort to stop the pain before it starts.
Here are a few simple ways each of us can help prevent child abuse and neglect:
- Be a nurturing parent. Children need to know that they are special and loved. Educate yourself about a child's development process so you can have reasonable expectations about what your child can and cannot do.
- Help a friend, neighbor or relative. Being a parent isn't easy. Someone you know may be struggling with his or her parenting responsibilities. Offer a helping hand.
- Help yourself. When the big and little problems of everyday life pile up to the point you feel overwhelmed and out of control, take time out. Know where you can turn for help when you need it.
- Learn how to calm a crying baby. It can be frustrating to hear your baby cry, especially when nothing you do seems to work. Learn what to do if your baby won't stop crying. But, never shake a baby!
- Get involved. Advocate for services to help families. Ask your community leaders, clergy, library and schools to develop services to meet the needs of children and families.
- Spend time with your children. Playing with your children, reading to them, or just being with them helps them feel loved. Make time everyday for quality time.
- Report suspected abuse or neglect. Keeping children safe is the responsibility of every adult in our community. If you have reason to believe that a child has been or may be harmed, call 574-267-8108. Remember - it's the law in Indiana to report suspected child abuse or neglect.
For more information about how to prevent child abuse and neglect, call Child Abuse Prevention Council Kosciusko County at 574-371-1310 or Prevent Child Abuse Indiana at 800-CHILDREN (800-244-5373).
Delores Hearn, President
Child Abuse Prevention Council of Kosciusko County Inc.
