Speaking Up in David vs. Goliath Situations | Child Abuse Prevention Month
My mom made parenting look effortless. I’ve been a mother for five years as both a foster and biological mother. Motherhood has been a joy, but it has never been effortless. It has been a mixture of good and bad days and everything in between. I’ve celebrated joyful firsts and cried tears of fear and failure. On the worst days, I’ve felt alone. On the best days, others have wrapped around me.
I’ve been inspired by parents who fight hard to make new ways. To break cycles of generational trauma. The parents of the children in my home, separated by foster care, often must fight hard to turn a new chapter, to be the best parent they can be. To let go of old ways – often modeled to them by their own parents –and learn healthier ways forward. Often, they are starting the journey without many tools in their parenting toolbox and very little support.
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month. When we hear statistics about abuse and neglect, we may feel overwhelmed by the task at hand. I want to say, “I don’t have the credentials to end child abuse,” and alone I may not. However, I remember the parents I’ve met in every chapter of my story who find new ways despite all odds. I think of the parents I’ve met in every corner of my town fighting for better, speaking up in David vs. Goliath situations.
I know I have a part to play. And I think you do too!
South Carolina ranks 39th in child wellbeing which means we trail behind most other states in education and health outcomes, economic wellbeing, and indicators for strong families.
We see this tangibly in nearly 4,000 children entering foster care due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment statewide. The problem of child abuse and neglect feels overwhelming or impossible to solve, we cannot afford to sit in hopelessness. Our children cannot afford our inaction. We must be better neighbors because together we are so much stronger than we are alone. It may be as simple as being a friend and lending a hand. It may be as simple (and as hard) as speaking up when we see things that are not as they should be.
Tips for parents and community partners:
- Tune In – Listen generously to children and parents. Basic needs can often be met with informal support.
- Reach Out – When you see a need, make connections to community resources before formal intervention is needed.
- Lay Down – Lay down your pride and humbly ask for help or offer help when it is needed.
- Speak Up – Report all suspected abuse and neglect immediately through the proper channels as incidents occur or information is disclosed.
When we make ways big and small for our neighbors to learn, grow, and thrive within community, we are playing our part. You are never alone! South Carolina has many programs and resources to support children and families. Get connected. Get involved. Play your part!
Kaley Lindquist
Thornwell Program Marketing and Recruitment Specialist