April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. You may have seen the blue Pinwheels For Prevention to prevent child abuse in Montana. They were planted out side of the Metra during the PBR and I noticed yesterday that they are lining the fence in front of Headstart. So if you see them around town know that that is what they represent. Blue is the color for Child Abuse Prevention month so try to rock the blue as much as you during April.

Our friends at the Family Tree Center sent us tips on how you can help prevent child abuse:

Ten Ways to Help Prevent Child Abuse

  • Be a nurturing parent.

Children need to know that they are special, loved and capable of following their dreams.

  • Help a friend, neighbor or relative.

Being a parent isn’t easy. Offer a helping hand take care of the children, so the parent(s)

can rest or spend time together.

  • Help yourself.

When the big and little problems of your everyday life pile up to the point you feel

overwhelmed and out of control – take time out. Don’t take it out on your kid.

  • If your baby cries…

It can be frustrating to hear your baby cry. Learn what to do if your baby won’t stop crying.

Never shake a baby – shaking a child may result in severe injury or death.

  • Get involved.

Ask your community leaders, clergy, library and schools to develop services to meet the

needs of healthy children and families.

  • Help to develop parenting resources at your local library.

Find out whether your local library has parenting resources, and if it does not, offer to

help obtain some.

  • Promote programs in school.

Teaching children, parents and teachers prevention strategies can help to keep children

safe.

  • Monitor your child’s television, video, and internet viewing/usage.

Watching violent films, TV programs, and videos can harm young children.

  • Volunteer at a local child abuse prevention program.

For information about volunteer opportunities, call (406) 252-9799.

  • Report suspected abuse or neglect.

If you have reason to believe a child has been or may be harmed, call your local department of children and family services or your local police department.

For more information contact The Family Tree Center

The Family Tree Center

2520 5th Avenue South

Billings, MT 59101

(406) 252-9799

familytreecenterbillings.org

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