Ways of Preventing Child Abuse

1. Be a nurturing parent.
              - Parenting styles determine the type of discipline they choose to use on their children.
              - Let your kids know that they are loved and cared for.
              - Don't over react. Uncontrolled discipline can result in abusive measures.

2. Get Educated
             - Learn about child abuse and the proper ways of handling discipline. That are many resources out    there.
              - Encourage your friends and family members to attend parent education programs to be more informed.
             - promote programs in school
             - Crisis information and referral services
             - Rape crisis centers

3. Talk about it
            -Children tend to keep abuse a secret, but by talking with your kids, it can come up without realization.

4. Learn the Signs
             -Physical signs of sexual abuse are not common, although redness, rashes, or swelling in the genital  area, urinary tract infections, or other such symptoms should be carefully investigated.
            -Emotional or behavioral signals are more common as well

5. Call For Help As Soon as Possible
         -The National Children's Alliance at 1-800-239-9950 for a CAC in your area (or visit their website, listed on our links page).
         - From Darkness to Light at 1-866-367-5444.
         -Childhelp USA Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-422-4453.