Abuse may include physical and emotional abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect. As a result, many of these children will develop learning disabilities, physical and emotional problems. The effects of child abe may lead into adulthood as well. Abuse may lead to adverse health affects (depression, obesity, etc) and negative behaviors (criminal activity, drug abuse, etc). Child abuse and neglect costs the United States over $24 billion in direct costs (hospitalization, etc) and an estimated $69 billion in indirect costs (special education, etc) annually.
Child abuse and neglect are tragic realities which can result in deep physical and emotional scars. Abuse is a daily occurrence that crosses all socioeconomic and cultural boundaries.
Did you know that in Michigan:
If you suspect child abuse and neglect, report it to Childhood Protective Services at 1-800-422-4453
Blue Sunday is a child abuse prevention initiative developed in 1995 to incorporate the faith community in the battle against child abuse. Churches around the world participate by including a time of prayer during their services for the victims of child abuse. The blue ribbon is the international symbol for child abuse prevention. Blue was chosen to represent the battered and bruised bodies of the thousands of children who are abused everyday. On the last Sunday of April, Child Abuse Prevention Month, churches pass out blue ribbons to remind the communities of this terrible epidemic.
The Children's Trust Fund "Never Shake a Baby Campaign" is designed to make parents, families, caregivers and communtities aware of the dangers of shaking a baby. Many young children suffer serious injury or die due to violent shaking each year. Shaking causes damage to a baby because they have weak neck muscles tht must support their heavy heads and still developing brain. The outer layer of the brain has not developed its protective outer layer, which causes injuries. The space between the brain and the skill is also larger, so the brain can travel farther, gaining more speed before it impacts with the skull. Even a few seconds of shaking can cause serious damage.
The Superior Child Abuse Prevention Council funds the Baby Basics program, a shaken baby syndrome prevention program. This one-session lesson is often presented to baby-sitter certification classes. It can be used with Middle and High School students or expectant parents or parents of young children.
