April is Child Abuse Prevention Month

Butler County Parent Connection

You can help stop the cycle

The best way to stop the cycle of child abuse and neglect is through investing in strong communities, healthy families and safe children. Ohio’s Children’s Trust Fund does just that. In fact, their mission is dedicating public funding for child abuse and neglect prevention.  You can learn more about Parent Resources on the OCTF website.

According to the Mayo Clinic, these factors may increases a person’s risk for abusing a child.

• A history of being abused or neglected as a child
• Physical or mental illness, such as depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Family crisis or stress, including domestic violence and other marital conflicts, or single parenting
• A child in the family who is developmentally or physically disabled
• Financial stress, unemployment or poverty
• Social or extended family isolation
• Poor understanding of child development and parenting skills
• Alcohol, drugs or other substance abuse

If you are afraid you may hurt a child, there is help.

If you are feeling overwhelmed, make sure your child is safe and walk away.

Recognizing your feelings is the first step to prevent them harm.

These resources are available to help you.  You are not alone.

• Call your doctor or therapist.  These healthcare providers can help you find immediate help.  They call also refer you to resources that might be useful, such as parent education classes, counseling, or support groups.
• Call the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline.  This 24/7 hotline can be reached at 800-4-A-CHILD by phone or text.  They can talk to you in the moment and direct you to free resources in your area. https://www.childhelp.org/
• Visit the Child Welfare Information Gateway.  This organization provides families and individuals with links to family support services.  https://www.childwelfare.gov/topics/supporting/support-services/