Be a friend to a child and help prevent child abuse

Dear editor:

April is Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Month in Idaho and throughout the country. Organizations throughout the state are displaying pinwheels to represent our hope that children can lead happy, healthy lives free from abuse or neglect. Mayors in various Idaho communities have proclaimed April as Child Abuse Prevention Month and committed themselves and their citizens to creating an environment where children can thrive. Organizations are educating parents, training community members and holding a variety of family events geared towards strengthening families and communities.

Once all the hoopla surrounding the month dies down though, it's time to take what we've learned and use it every day to keep kids safe. We all have a stake in the well being of the children in our communities. We will all benefit when they do well and become contributing members of society. We will all suffer if maltreatment leaves them less whole or damaged so that they are unable to contribute. It is surely true that we all do better when we all do better.

Whether you know it or not, you already shape children's lives. Every day, as a member of your community you shape children's lives in ways you might not even notice. Children hear what you say and see what you do. And, whether you are a bus driver, teacher, parent, neighbor, or random passer-by, you interact with children and play a role in their development.

You can do a lot to support families and children. You can start by reaching out. Anything you do to support kids and parents can help reduce the stress that often leads to abuse and neglect.

Be a friend to a parent you know. Ask how their children are doing. Draw on your own experiences to provide reassurance and support. If a parent seems to be struggling, offer to baby-sit or run errands, or just lend a friendly ear. Show you understand.

Be a friend to a child you know. Remember their names. Smile when you talk with them. Ask them about their day at school. Send them a card in the mail. Show you care.

Talk to your neighbors about looking out for one another's children. Encourage a supportive spirit among parents on your block. Show that you are involved.

Give your used clothing, furniture and toys for use by another family. This can help relieve the stress of financial burdens that parents sometimes take out on their kids.

Volunteer your time and money for programs in your community that support children and families, like parent support groups or day care centers.

Call or write your elected officials and ask them to support funding for parent support and child abuse prevention programs. Enclose copies of articles on child abuse and neglect from your local newspaper.

Write to the editor of your local newspaper sharing what you've learned about child abuse and neglect. Point out that preventing child abuse and neglect is an important investment in the future of your community.

Report suspected Abuse or Neglect. If you suspect abuse or neglect may be occurring, report it. Call 211.

Do as many of these things as you can. A child is depending on you.

For more information contact the Idaho Children's Trust Fund at 208-386-9317 or www.idahochildrenstrustfund.idaho.gov.

Monte MacConnell

Oasis