Keeping Children Safe: We All Have a Role to Play
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month
Child abuse is one of the leading causes of death in children, both nationally and here in Colorado. At The Children’s Hospital, where we are the only Level One Pediatric Trauma Center in the region, abuse is the number-one cause of trauma death for the children we care for.
Child abuse is a devastating issue, but the good news is that it can be prevented. In April, The Children’s Hospital and our partners recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month with a series of activities designed to raise awareness about child abuse and neglect, and prompt community action to prevent it.
The hospital’s ongoing partnership with The Kempe Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Child Abuse and Neglect is one way that we engage in activities to prevent abuse and neglect.
Another way is through the Colorado Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention Campaign, which is a partnership between Kohl’s Department Stores, The Children’s Hospital and The Kempe Center. The campaign, now in its third year, is designed to educate the community about the dangers of shaking a baby, and to offer solutions for how to calm a crying baby, as well as manage the frustrations a caregiver may experience when caring for a fussy baby.
Get Involved
Blue lights decorate trees outside
The Children's Hospital in recognition of
April as Child Abuse Prevention Month.
We all have a role to play in keeping children safe from harm. Here are some ways you can help:
- Wear a blue ribbon to raise awareness – Blue is the color that symbolizes child abuse prevention.
- Learn more about local prevention efforts – One way to get started is to attend The Children’s Hospital’s Advocacy Lunch & Learn April 22 about child abuse prevention in Colorado.
- Offer your time and support – After-school activities, parent education classes, mentoring programs, and respite care are some of the many ways to keep children safe from harm. Volunteer your time, donate, or speak up in support of these types of efforts in your community.
- Be a friend – Reach out to other parents, neighbors and friends who may need a break caring for their children.
- Spread the word – Education is the key to prevention.
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