Life is stressful and parenting – while rewarding – has its own stresses. When parents and other caregivers are stressed, child abuse can happen. Sometimes just having more information and being connected with resources can make a difference, while sometimes more support is necessary. At American SPCC, we can help with both.
Child development information: Children develop at their own pace based on genetic and environmental factors. But it’s helpful for parents to know what behavior is typical for children at various ages. For child development information and positive parenting ideas for each age and stage, click here.
Never shake a baby! Parents and caregivers who shake a baby don’t mean to hurt them, but they don’t realize the serious harm that can result, like permanent brain damage and spinal injuries. Click here for more info.
Some shake babies to interrupt what seems like endless crying or out of frustration over feeding problems or toilet training issues; some are just playing with their babies. But please, keep your baby safe and don’t shake him or her. Click here for tips on what to do instead.
National Parent Helpline: For one-on-one help with parenting issues from a trained volunteer, call the National Parent Helpline at 1-855-4 A PARENT or check out their website at www.nationalparenthelpline.org
Ideas for Families: For ideas on fun, free or low-cost family activities, check out the following websites: www.believeintheblue.org
Bullying: Bullying happens a lot – in school, on the playgrounds, on school buses, on the internet. Click here for more information about bullying. Interested in ways to help your child with bullying prevention? Some great sites for younger kids and teens to check out are: www.PACERkidsagainstbullying.org and www.PACERteensagainstbullying.org
Dating violence: Relationships should be based on mutual respect, not violence, power, control, jealousy and possessiveness. Unfortunately, violence in dating relationships is a big problem in our youth and teens today. Some great sites to check out for further information on this topic are: www.loveisrespect.org
Give us your input: Do you have comments on our website, suggestions for additional resources or links to include, or anything else you’d like to share with us? We’d love to hear from you! Please contact us.