This post was originally shared in April 2020. As we once again acknowledge Child Abuse Prevention Month, we wholeheartedly believe that abuse is preventable and desire the best for every child and family. Below you’ll find information on protective factors and available support if you are struggling.
Christian Children’s Home of Ohio (CCHO) cares for abused, neglected and traumatized children and teens. Our trained and compassionate staff come alongside them in the midst of their pain and help them experience their worth. Through a variety of therapies, they process their trauma and pursue life on the other side. It is a privilege and a joy to see them overcome their past.
While it is our ministry to help hurting kids, we equally believe that child abuse and neglect is preventable. As we continue in Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Month, Emily Frazier, LISW-S, Clinical Director of our Children’s Residential Center shares what individuals and families need to be healthy and safe.
Protective factors for families include access to resources, community and family support, education, and development and nurture of parent-child bonds.
It’s also imperative to long-term success to identify any barriers such as adequate/affordable childcare, transportation, access to nutritious, healthy food, health care, consistent/adequate income and parenting support/guidance.
Families can also be protected with parent resilience – when parents work through their own abuse/trauma history and issues so they can be equipped to parent their children. Social and emotional competence of children and parents creates stronger relationships. Assistance with extracurricular activities to enhance social/physical wellbeing for children can also be productive.
If your family is struggling in any of these areas, we would love to support you with resources and education. Encompass Christian Counseling, a ministry of CCHO has experienced counselors and case managers to help you become the family you desire to be. Take the first step to a healthy family today at encompasscounseling.org.
