Tips for Parents on Preventing for Child Abuse

How Can Parents Help Prevent Child Abuse?

Preventing child abuse and neglect is a community effort. It takes action from everyone—parents, families, and the community—to reduce risks and strengthen protections for children.

Things You Can Do as a Parent to Prevent Child Abuse:

• Discipline Calmly: Always discipline your children in a calm and thoughtful way.
• Take a Break: If you are upset, take a moment to cool off instead of punishing in anger.
• Teach Conflict Resolution: Show your children how to solve problems with words, not violence.
• Talk Every Day: Have conversations with your children regularly. Listen to them and be involved in their lives.
• Notice Changes: Watch for changes in your child’s behavior or emotions. Talk to them calmly if you’re concerned.
• Teach Body Boundaries: Teach your children that their body is their own. Let them know they can say no to touches that feel bad or confusing.
• Encourage Speaking Up: Teach your children to tell you if someone hurts, scares, or confuses them. Reassure them that you will not be angry, but will help them stay safe.
• Practice Safety Plans: Play “what if” games with your children to help them think about what to do in scary or confusing situations. Talk about who they can turn to for help in different places like school, the park, or church.

If You Suspect Child Abuse or Neglect, Call the Hotline:

If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, call the 24-hour hotline at:
1-800-340-5411
Your report is confidential and can be anonymous.