How to Recognize and Prevent Child Abuse
April is Child Abuse Month

by Patricia Price

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. There will be a national campaign to increase our awareness of the growing problem of child abuse and neglect. The Disabled Community, to which I belong, is working with child abuse experts and police for a successful month -- enlightening the public at large.

But everyone can begin to contribute a positive, nurturing environment for our children right now by learning a few simple facts:

1. Recognize what child abuse is, and what the warning signs are.

Child abuse can be physical, emotional, or sexual in nature. It can be neglectful behavior when children are deprived of basic needs, such as food, clothing and care. Child abuse can be emotional when children are isolated, rejected, berated or mistreated. Besides unexplained injuries, children can show symptoms of depression, fear, poor hygiene, difficulty in trusting others, changes in eating or sleeping patterns, hostility and other behaviors.

2. As parents and caregivers, we can learn to discipline our children in thoughtful and caring ways.

First of all, never discipline your child when you are upset. You need to give yourself time to calm down. Words or actions can do great damage to your child when you are upset. Use this opportunity to show children and other adults that conflicts can be settled without hitting, hurting or yelling.

3. Get involved by helping others.

There is always a need in our community to become directly involved in helping children learn to grow. Become a foster parent or volunteer your time with local social service agencies or youth sport leagues. Use your skills to improve the lives of others in your community.

4. Report incidents of child abuse and neglect to authorities.

If you see a child being harmed, or if you see evidence of abuse or neglect, report this to the Child Protective Services or police. If a child tells you about abuse listen to him or her carefully and assure the child that he or she did the right thing by telling an adult. Remind the child that he or she is not responsible for whatever happened to them.

Locally, police investigate complaints of child abuse. Sadly, many more incidents of child abuse go unreported in our community.

If you wish more information call the Hollywood Community Relation Office -- speak to Officer Barrett at (213) 485-4310.

Thanks for your assistance,

Patricia Price
Hollywood C-PAB member