Compiles explanations and resource information on child abuse and neglect for use by social services providers and community groups to educate adults on the prevention and recognition of abuse. Eight units on various topics related to child abuse and neglect are available to be freely reproduced and distributed. Unit one discusses the definition of child abuse and neglect as well as the major types of abuse: physical, sexual, emotional, and abandonment. Unit two outlines prevention programs including public awareness, parent education and support groups, home visitation, respite programs, and family resource centers. All community members are encouraged to support parents by being active community participants. Unit three, Leaving Your Child Home Alone, presents the legal guidelines for minors’ staying home alone as well as other factors such as age, maturity, and unique circumstances. Ideas to increase safety skills and establish safe limits are included. Unit four describes the signs and symptoms of each type of abuse and neglect. Unit five explains the process of the child welfare systemfrom the report of a possible abuse case, through foster care and law enforcement involvement. Unit six focuses on the long-term physical, psychological, behavioral, and societal consequences of child abuse and neglect. Unit seven summarizes the key data findings of Child Maltreatment 2005, a report that provides statistical data based on submissions from each state’s child protective services (CPS). Unit eight lists hotline numbers for child abuse, child sexual abuse, crime victims, family violence, mental illness, missing/abducted children, rape/incest, substance abuse, suicide prevention, and youth in trouble/runaways.
