Do you want to help the families and children in your daily life?

Keep in mind... it takes a village to raise a child... so it's important and OK to take a role in the life of any child.

Sometimes we are concerned about a parent because of drug or alcohol use within a family. This may or may not be a reason for concern, however if a child’s home is frequently used by drug users or sellers, he or she is likely at risk of abuse or neglect. If a parent is abusing alcohol or drugs, he or she is possibly exposing a child to risk. These situations are often reportable to the county child protection agency. If a report is not accepted, being available for that child as a caring adult who is interested in them may be all you can do. 

Sometimes we are concerned when a parent appears overly stressed or frustrated with their children. This may be a temporary situation or a precursor of abuse. Parental stress is a common problem among today’s parents who are often trying to work, manage a home, and have a social life as well. Many parents do not have support from their extended family and may not have a break from parenting. They may be coping with on-going personal issues or they may be faced with a particularly challenging child. There may be financial or relationship stress which is impacting their parenting. Whatever the cause, empathy and offering help is the most common solution.

The most important action you can take is not to judge them or their children while showing you are interested in their family. 

Focus on:

• Their positive behaviors as a parent -- what good parenting do you see.
• The positive behaviors of their children -- what are the good things you notice about their children.

The last thing a frustrated parent needs is to feel you are criticizing them or their children!     

Empathy works best! Here is a list of positive comments you can make to a stressed parent which will help them relax and may reduce their stress:

•  “I remember times like that when I had young children.”
•  “I always thought parenting was the hardest job I have ever done.” 
•  “My child used to do that too.” 
•  “My child was pretty challenging but he turned out to be a great adult.”

Here is a list of ways to reframe children’s behavior in a positive light:

•  “I wish I had as much energy as your child has, I wish I could borrow  some of it now.”
•  “Your child sure has a creative mind.”
•  “Your child is quite a talker.”
•  “Your child has persistence that will serve him wonderfully later in life.” 

As in all cases, if you are convinced that a child is being abused, a call to the county child protection agency will help you make a decision about whether there is a reportable situation occurring or not.