Child Abuse Prevention: How You Can Help

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. The most recent data from Missouri reports that there were 64 deaths from fatal child abuse and neglect (Missouri Child Fatality Review Annual Report for 2015). Not only is it important to prevent a child from experiencing abuse or neglect, it is important to recognize signs and symptoms of maltreatment. Wear blue to support strong families and safe kids this Friday, April 7!

Consider the possibility of physical abuse when the child:

Has unexplained burns, bites, bruises, broken bones, or black eyes
Has fading bruises or other marks noticeable after an absence from school
Seems frightened of the parents and protests or cries when it is time to go home
Shrinks at the approach of adults
Reports injury by a parent or another adult caregiver
Abuses animals or pets

Consider the possibility of neglect when the child:

Is frequently absent from school
Begs or steals food or money
Lacks needed medical or dental care, immunizations, or glasses
Is consistently dirty and has severe body odor
Lacks sufficient clothing for the weather
Abuses alcohol or other drugs
States that there is no one at home to provide care

Consider the possibility of sexual abuse when the child:

Has difficulty walking or sitting
Suddenly refuses to change for gym or to participate in physical activities
Reports nightmares or bedwetting
Experiences a sudden change in appetite
Demonstrates bizarre, sophisticated, or unusual sexual knowledge or behavior
Becomes pregnant or contracts a venereal disease, particularly if under age 14
Runs away
Reports sexual abuse by a parent or another adult caregiver
Attaches very quickly to strangers or new adults in their environment

*Information obtained from https://www.childwelfare.gov