07 April, 2009

NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH in DC

MPD HIGHLIGHTS CHALLENGE 100 EVENT TO MARK
NATIONAL CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH

National statistics indicate that one in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually abused by the time they reach 18 years of age. The MPD and the District of Columbia have made a commitment to address and prevent child abuse in our community. Five indications of child abuse are: physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, and domestic violence. The MPD’s Youth Investigations Division, in conjunction with the DC Children’s Advocacy Center(Safe Shores), is challenging 100 concerned and responsible adults to learn how better to protect children by becoming Stewards of Children in April.

The Stewards of Children prevention curriculum, developed by Darkness to Light and first brought to the District of Columbia by Safe Shores, evidence-based adult-focused child sexual abuse prevention training program. It offers seven simple steps to protecting children from sexual abuse. Safe Shores will conduct four free prevention trainings. Individuals interested in increasing knowledge, improving attitudes and changing child-protective behaviors over the long term are encouraged to participate.

Child abuse does not have to be a problem within our community. Knowledge, recognition, and action can play a pivotal role in a child abuse victim’s life. If you or someone you know recognizes any form of child abuse, you can help. Here are some ways to respond to the situation – remain calm; place trust in the child; listen; commend the child for confiding in you; assure the child that the neglect is not their fault; take the child to a safe environment; and finally, contact the police or the Child and Family Services Agency at (202) 671-SAFE.

No comments: