Prevention
Iowa’s future depends on the safety and well-being of its children. Together, community members and organizations can help ensure safe and nurturing childhoods for youth, leading to a more prosperous society tomorrow. Many factors can influence the likelihood of child abuse. And, while there is no uniform solution to prevention, there are existing programs throughout Iowa, which have resulted in significant long-term improvements for children and families.
Effective child abuse prevention programs help families build “protective factors,” which improve families’ ability to cope with stress and influence overall well-being. The more factors present in families, the more likely a child will grow up in a home free from child abuse and will reach his or her full potential in adulthood. Prevention programs work to increase these protective factors in families and reduce the likelihood of child abuse and neglect.
Research has identified five protective factors that reduce the risk of child abuse:
Nurturing and Attachment
Developing a close bond helps parents relate, respond and communicate with their child.
Knowledge of Parenting and Child Development
Understanding child development can be calming for parents and help parents respond appropriately to a child’s behavior.
Parental Resilience
Recognizing the signs of stress and enhancing problem-solving skills can improve parents’ capacity to cope.
Social Connections
Identifying a network of family, friends, and neighbors provides parents support in times of need.
Concrete Supports
Offering parents access to financial, housing, medical, and other resources and services help parents meet their basic needs, so they can focus on their role as parents.
In order to learn more about the child abuse prevention programs throughout Iowa or building protective factors, please call (800) CHILDREN.
Make a Donation
Make a donation and help put an end to child abuse in the state of Iowa.