National Child Abuse Prevention Month was first observed 39 years ago by proclamation by President Ronald Reagan. Since 1983, every April has been an opportunity to learn signs of child abuse and ways to prevent this from continuing to happen. Through this post, I am going to explain the different forms of abuse innocent children may endure and explain the risk factors that can lead to child abuse and neglect. As a country, it is crucial that we work together to prevent and address child abuse and make sure every child can grow up in a safe home so they can live a happy life.

Every child deserves to be in a safe and happy home environment. Unfortunately, for too many children abuse and neglect have come their reality and is part of their daily life. Parents should protect their children, but sadly many fail their children. As responsible adults, we can know and understand the signs a child is being abused and report our suspicions.

The following are some emotional signs a child may display, but they do not necessarily mean the child is being abused. However, the signs are reasons an adult should be concerned and pursue help for the child and report their concerns.

* Becomes attached to strangers or new adults in their environment.

*Shows delayed emotional development

*The child comes to school or other activities early, stays late, and does not want to go home.

*Appears to be fearful of their parents and other adults.

There are also several physical signs a child may have that should be reported. These physical signs may indicate the child is being abused at home and they need to be addressed.

*Unexplained injuries, bruises, burns, bites, broken bones, or black eye.

*The child has not received help for physical or medical problems that were brought to the parents’ attention.

*Does not have appropriate clothing for the weather.

*The child displays abusive behavior towards animals or pets.

*Does not have necessary medical or dental care, immunizations, or glasses.

The number of children abused in the United States is staggering and appalling. Nearly 700,000 children in the United States are abused annually. About 90% of children that are victims of abuse know their abuser. Even more repulsive and upsetting, about one in ten children will be sexually abused before they are 18 years old. Approximately, 30% of children that are sexually abused are abused by a family member and 60% are abused by someone they trusted.

It is a disgusting world when children who cannot defend themselves are being abused so much. The effect of abuse is something that does not go away and will never leave the child’s mind. They may experience thoughts they are not loved and will battle these feelings their entire life. They might think the abuse was their fault, when logically they were not at fault.  I am sure it is clear that this is a topic I feel passionate about, and it breaks my heart to know it happens as much as it does. It enrages me to hear stories of parents harming their children because they did not ask to be born.

If you suspect a child is being abused the number to call in the United States is 1-888-CARE4US or 1-888-227-3487. You can call this number 24 hour a day, 7 days a week.

Thank you for visiting my site today. I hope the information I provided was helpful and provided you the insight needed to help an innocent child. Considering this is a sensitive and emotional topic for me, I am going to do this in a few posts. Hopefully, I will have more information on this topic early next week. I hope you are enjoying your weekend and getting as much rest as you can. Please never forget that I am always sending y’all LOTS of love, comfort, support, and MANY positive vibes!

Always, Alyssa