Ten Steps to Take to Keep Kids Safe
Infants , toddlers , and preschoolers are unable to protect themselves , flee , seek help , or describe their experiences adequately . At the same time , we know that traumatic and stressful events affect young brains and bodies . Stress hormones course through children who experience chronic fear , resulting in a permanent state of alertness . This early trauma changes them , even if they have no words yet to describe their experiences .
Such early adverse childhood experiences may affect children throughout their lives , showing up as bodily pain and illness , anxiety and depression .
Children who are neglected or who are exposed to tension , yelling , and abuse , may become difficult to soothe and chronically “ on edge .” They may have disturbed relationships for years — although therapy can help . People who suffer in their infancy may have difficulty with attachment ; they may struggle with becoming and staying close to others .
Domestic abusers put children at risk for harm . What can protective parents do to safeguard their children from the other parent , if that parent is abusive ?
Ten Steps to Take to Keep Kids Safe
1 . Protective orders . Try to get your young child included in any court orders that protect you from your abuser . States vary as to the criteria and procedures for this — whether your child can be included in your order of protection or whether the child must have a separate order . State laws also vary as to what proof you need to provide of the abuser ’ s risk to your child for this order to be granted . In some states , the burden of proof for a temporary order is slight , but the burden of proof for a long-term ( or permanent ) order is much greater .
2 . Let others know what is going on . On the one hand , you don ’ t want to be seen as “ out to get ” your ex or ruin their reputation . On the other , you need the adults in your child ’ s life — such as pediatricians , childcare providers and family members — to keep their eyes open for possible signs of trouble , to note these and even call Child Protective Services ( CPS ) if they believe your child has been abused or is at risk . You need them to alert you if they see anything amiss . One victim / survivor said , “ We finally got out of the house because a childcare provider identified something that had happened to my child and reported it to CPS , prompting an investigation that opened a door for us to leave . But if I hadn ’ t let them know they should keep an eye out , they might not have identified the red flags .”