How You can Prevent Child Abuse In Public Places

Many people turn their heads while at a store or shopping center, when they see a parent yelling or even spanking a child. Instead what people need to be doing is educating themselves and others to help prevent child abuse and neglect from happening to begin with. Here are five tips that can help when you witness this type of situation.

1. Talk directly to the parent. Try to divert the attention away from the child. Being empathetic and caring can be very helpful. For instance, you can say things like, “he/she seems to be trying your patience”, or “I have a child that acts that way too”. Or, provide positive feedback such as “What a cute kid! He/she looks like mom/dad!”

2. When a child is misbehaving, talk to them directly.

3. Creating a positive atmosphere can diffuse the situation. Look for an opportunity to give praises to the parent or child.

4. Offer immediate assistance if the child is in danger.

5. Avoid any negative comments or looks. This may cause the situation to escalate, especially once the child and parent are alone together.

While these tips will not always calm or fix every situation, they may help the one you are witnessing.

If you think you have witnessed something that you wonder if you should report to child protection but aren’t sure what to do next, give WINDOW a call and we’ll help walk you through.

If you have any questions perhaps these print outs can be of assistance.

• Child Abuse Wheel
• Nuturing Children Wheel