This year, the Scotland County Child Fatality Prevention Team, along with the Scotland County Department of Social Services, is declaring April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. Child abuse is an issue that affects all of us and as adults, it is our job to make sure that children are safe and that our community has adequate resources to help families.
Being a parent is the hardest job that you will ever have. It is a 24-hour, seven day a week commitment. Child abuse and neglect are preventable. Our community can prevent child abuse and neglect by supporting proven programs that help strengthen families and help parents create safe, nurturing home environments. Do what you can to support parents by reaching out or lending a helping hand. If you are a parent, ask for help and advice from friends, family, neighbors, doctors and others. It's up to all of us to make sure that the foundation for our future is strong.
Beginning today through Saturday, the Scotland County Child Fatality Prevention Team will offer daily tips on ways to prevent child abuse.
Tips on how to prevent child abuse:
— Be a nurturing parent. Nurturing touches are gentle hugs, soft strokes on a child's back, or gentle rocking. Praise and a nurturing touch together are a great combination.
— Help and support a friend, neighbor or relative who is having trouble with family. Offer to baby sit for an afternoon or run an errand. Be available and there to help when needed.
— Educate parents you know about healthy child development or healthy parenting. Praise can be the most powerful reward of all. Use praise for "being" (I love you! You are great!) and praise for doing (what a great job you did cleaning your room!).
Johnson is director of nursing with the Scotland County Health Department
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