April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. People are not aware of the broad extent of child
abuse and neglect in our society. Unfortunately, many people have developed the attitude that
“it can’t happen here.” But child abuse and neglect does happen right here in our county. In
Tuscarawas County there were 1,722 new reports of abuse and neglect in 2008. Everyone
must understand that they have a responsibility to help vulnerable children and abusing
parents. Child abuse and neglect is a community problem that won’t go away on its own.
It is easy to “get involved” and getting involved makes a very real impact on the lives of
children in Tuscarawas County. Being a parent or caregiver isn’t easy. Everyone has had a
moment where they needed support, or sought more information on a parenting topic. You
don’t have to be an expert to form a positive relationship with parents or to be alert to signs of
stress.
In your home make an effort to spend more “quality time” with your children. Listen to their
thoughts, dreams, and concerns. Eat meals together as a family, without the interruption of
television or phone calls. If you are a single parent, realize that whoever you get involved with
directly affects your children. Never leave your child with someone you don’t trust with your
child’s life.
In your neighborhood become a foster parent by calling the Tuscarawas County Job &
Family Services, 330-339-7791. Become a Big Brother/Big Sister. Join your local schools’
parent groups, you don’t have to have a child in school. Volunteer at your local school.
At your place of worship invite local experts to speak to your congregation or adult education
classes on child abuse prevention and treatment. Volunteer to help with child care at your
place of worship. Encourage your church to provide day care for low-income children.
At your workplace encourage your employer to let employees check in with their children.
Sponsor a “Bring Your Child to Work Day.” Ask your employer to provide volunteers or
financial assistance to local programs helping children and families such as the Tuscarawas
County Council for Church and Community or Job & Family Services Sock and Underwear
Drive.
In your community, take an active part in the special events planned this month. April 2 at 1:
00 the winners of the Annual Animal/Child Abuse Prevention Essay Contest will be
announced in front of the courthouse. Pinwheels will be on display with each pinwheel
representing a child involved in a report of abuse or neglect in Tuscarawas County. The
second Annual Animal/Child Abuse Prevention Walk will be held on April 25 with registration
beginning at 9:30. Each child will be given a book while parents will be given a goodie bag.
This event also begins in front of the Tuscarawas County Courthouse. These events are
planned by Family and Children First Council and United Way.
Above all report suspected child abuse or neglect. Many people feel reluctant to become
involved or afraid that they are making mistake. A call to Children Services at 339-7791 or
local law enforcement may mean the beginning of a safe and happy childhood for a child who
has been living in fear or pain. Your report of suspected child abuse or neglect is completely
confidential. Many children have suffered ongoing abuse because no one was willing to
take that first step and become involved. The Tuscarawas County Job & Family Services
cannot do the job alone - “It takes a community to protect a child”. Thank you for helping.
For the Love of Children,
Lynn Angelozzi, Director
Tuscarawas County Job & Family Services
APRIL IS CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH