Many more people are single parents these days and that also adds to the stress of daily life. According to Grady, it's very hard to raise a family with two parents, let alone one. Parents need to take care of themselves so they can have some sort of balance. Moms and dads lash out at their kids every day. According to Grady, it is okay to criticize or comment, but also reassure.
Kids are pretty tough, yet fragile.
Let the child know what is going on with you, rather than expecting them to figure it out. If you suspect someone of verbal or emotional abuse, first you must report it to family advocacy. If you see someone, perhaps a friend lashing out at a child, try to emphasize to the parent that he or she may need to take a breather or offer to help, maybe by watching the child while the individual goes and does something for a few minutes. Any way you look at it, everyone has the responsibility to watch for signs of abuse. Remember, take time out, don't take it out on your child.