By Kay Gibson
Each week Child Protective Services agencies throughout the
United States receive more than 50,000 reports of suspected child
abuse or neglect. Here in San Benito County, CPS receives an
average of 22 reports of suspected child abuse or neglect every
week.
Each week Child Protective Services agencies throughout the United States receive more than 50,000 reports of suspected child abuse or neglect. Here in San Benito County, CPS receives an average of 22 reports of suspected child abuse or neglect every week.
In approximately two-thirds of these cases, the information provided has been sufficient to prompt an assessment or investigation.
More than half of victims experience neglect, meaning a caretaker failed to provide for the child’s basic needs.
Fewer victims experience physical abuse or sexual abuse, though these cases are typically more publicized.
The smallest number is found to be victims of emotional abuse, which includes criticizing, rejection, or refusing to nurture a child.
No group of children is immune. Boys and girls are about equally likely to be abused or neglected. Children of all races and ethnicities experience child abuse. Children of all ages experience abuse and neglect, but the youngest children are the most vulnerable.
More than half of all reports made to our county’s CPS agency come from professionals who come in contact with the child. Teachers, law enforcement and criminal justice personnel, social services workers, and medical personnel are all required by law to report suspected abuse or neglect. Many reports also come from parents, relatives, friends and neighbors.
Parents are children’s first teachers, but not their only teachers. Childcare providers, teachers, doctors, neighbors, coaches, and grandparents all influence children as well.
The quality and stability of young children’s relationships affect virtually all aspects of their development. Children learn a lot in their early years – they learn respect for others, right from wrong, and how to get along with each other.
All the people they come in contact with can help reinforce this learning and influence their long-term development.
Surround a child with secure relationships and stimulating experiences, and he or she will incorporate that environment to become a confident, caring adult, ready to be part of society.
But if he or she is surrounded by violence or given little intellectual or emotional stimulation, it will be much more difficult to grow up successfully.
As members of the community, we should each ask ourselves: Are we providing the kind of environments that will allow children to grow into citizens who give back to their communities?
April is child abuse prevention month; let’s not throw away our children. We can all play a part in helping this county to create, improve and maintain a healthy and supportive community.
Here are some things you can do to help children in our community:
Get to know your neighbors: Develop friendly relationships with your neighbors and their children and grandchildren. Make your neighborhood your extended family. People feel better and safer, and problems seem less overwhelming, when support is nearby.
Help a family under stress: If a family you know seems to be in crisis or under stress, offer to help – offer to baby sit, help with chores and errands, or suggest resources in your community that may be of help to the family.
Reach out to children in your community: A smile or word of encouragement can mean a lot, whether it comes from a parent or a stranger.
Get involved in a local school: Join the parent-teacher organization and attend school events. Even if you don’t have school-aged children, you can mentor a child at your local school.
Keep your neighborhood safe: Start a Neighborhood Watch and help plan and participate in your local “National Nite Out” community event that brings together neighbors, local businesses, firefighters, police and others.
Become a foster parent: Help keep abused children in their own community. Open your home and become a licensed foster parent.
Kay Gibson is assistant director of San Benito County’s Health and Human Services Agency.
