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April, designated as National Child Abuse Prevention Month, is winding down, but sadly the need to draw attention to this very serious issue is not.
For the 18th year, Mahoning County Children Services this month placed hundreds of pinwheels on the front lawn of Boardman Park. The Pinwheels represent individuals who advocated on behalf of an abused or neglected child in Mahoning County.
Mahoning County Children Services received more than 5,000 reports of child abuse and neglect in 2022. Of those reports 1,262 cases were opened for assessment or investigation.
The annual pinwheel display is intended to send a message and raise awareness of these reported cases of abuse or child neglect.
But, frankly, National Child Abuse Prevention Month is more than just raising awareness. It's also about working together to reduce it -- and that will take all of us.
We here in Mahoning County and the Mahoning Valley can join in this effort by providing our families and those in our community with the support they need.
We all should recognize the challenges that families face and, when possible, offer support and encouragement to reduce stress. Everyone can promote social norms discouraging violence.
Undoubtedly, all parents and caregivers know parenting is hard work. Experts offer some suggestions to help make childhood experiences more positive.
Establish a routine. Children feel secure and thrive in structured environments.
Praise your child when he / she does something right. Pay attention to your child when he / she is trying to communicate with you. Set aside time each day to talk and play with your child. This strengthens the bond between you and your child.
All children deserve to grow up in safe, supportive environments. Together, we can end child abuse and neglect.
The National Child Abuse Hotline is 1-800-4-A-Child (or 1-800-422-4453).
Ohioans who suspect child abuse or neglect can report via the Ohio Child Abuse Report Hotline at 855-O-H-CHILD (855-642-4453). The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services launched this automated telephone directory that links callers directly to an Ohio Children Services agency or law enforcement office in their county.
And in Mahoning County, callers may contact Mahoning County Children Services' 24/7 report line at 330-941-8888.
Remember, if you see something, say something.