Reporting is not difficult or time consuming. In all cases, the person reporting is protected from any kind of legal action, provided the report is not falsely made and motivated by malice. Many of these organizations are listed among the emergency telephone numbers on or near the first page of your local telephone directory. Most abusive parents do not consciously set out to harm their children. If there are more and better efforts to assist troubled families, parents at risk of abusing may be reached and helped before they resort to violence.
Prevention is a good investment, in terms of both the personal and social costs that can be saved.
Parenting education can help parents to better understand normal child development and to have a more nurturing and enjoyable relationship with their children. Positive approaches to parenting can help parents with children of any age. Encourage your local school board to develop and implement child abuse prevention programs. Abused children tend to repeat the pattern of abuse, and prevention is one of the most effective means to stop the cycle of violence. If a child tells you about an abusive situation or experience, be supportive.