Child Abuse Prevention Month: Empowering Families, Protecting Children
April is a significant month for child safety and well-being. As the flowers bloom and the days lengthen, we also raise awareness about preventing child abuse and neglect. In Oregon, this critical mission is championed by our staff at Parenting Now, who are dedicated to supporting families with young children. Let’s delve into the statistics and explore how Parenting Now plays a pivotal role in safeguarding our most vulnerable members of society.
The Numbers Speak:
In 2019, 17.5 children per 1,000 were victims of abuse or neglect in Lane County. These alarming figures underscore the urgent need for protective measures and support systems.
The Oregon Child Abuse Prevalence Study (OCAPS, 2019) sheds further light on the issue. It estimates that a staggering 24,000 Lane County youth have encountered child abuse, neglect, or exposure to domestic violence. Additionally, nearly 100,000 Lane County adults have faced similar traumatic experiences.
Challenges and Opportunities:
While the numbers are sobering, they also serve as a call to action. Parenting Now offers evidence-based parenting programs that empower parents with knowledge and skills. These programs focus on positive parenting practices, child development, and effective communication. By equipping parents with tools to navigate challenges, Parenting Now helps reduce the risk of abuse and promotes healthy family dynamics.
Safeguarding Children at Risk
Parenting programs lead to positive changes in parenting practices. Parents who participate in these programs are more likely to use non-violent discipline methods, reduce yelling, and enhance their emotional regulation skills. Parenting Now’s programs are accessible to all families, not just those identified as high-risk for child maltreatment. This approach eliminates stigma and ensures that every parent can benefit from support. By reaching a broad population, they contribute to preventing abuse across diverse communities.
Parenting Now: A Beacon of Support
Parenting Now is more than an organization; it’s a lifeline for parents. Parenting Now provides parenting education, support, and resources to families with young children. Our vision? That all children are raised by nurturing, skilled parents.
How Does Parenting Now Combat Child Abuse?
Parenting Groups: In these groups, parents learn how to create loving relationships with their children. Dr. Jaylynn Kao, MD, emphasizes that these groups normalize parenting challenges, showing parents that what they’re experiencing is often okay. Michelle Crespino, a parent, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that she felt less alone after joining Parenting Now.
Evidence-Based Curricula: Parenting Now equips educators with evidence-based curricula and enrichment materials. These educators, armed with knowledge, empower parents to navigate the complexities of raising children.
Community Investment: Former University of Oregon President David Frohnmayer aptly describes Parenting Now as a “community investment of the most priceless kind.” By supporting strong families, Parenting Now ensures that nurturing family life becomes every child’s birthright.
As April unfolds, let’s honor Child Abuse Prevention Month by recognizing the tireless efforts of organizations like Parenting Now. Together, we can create a world where children thrive, families flourish, and abuse becomes a distant memory.
For more information about our groups and enrollment, please visit us here: https://parentingnow.org/parents/