April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month
Throughout the month of April, Bivona Child Advocacy Center joins the National Children’s Alliance, their member agencies, and supporters across the country to bring attention to the prevalence of child abuse, as well as means of intervention and prevention. Past studies have shown a lack of awareness of the issue of child abuse in the greater Rochester community, with many believing it to not be an issue in their communities, but rather something that happens elsewhere. As new stories and cases continue to appear at an alarming rate, it’s obvious that it does happen here — in our communities — and we need to speak up and do something about it.
Child abuse and exploitation has been demonstrated to increase during humanitarian crises such as natural disasters and pandemics. Here at Bivona, we know that in the aftermath of the Coronavirus pandemic, we will undoubtedly be faced with injuries, disclosures, and forever-altered children. We want to be prepared to rise to that challenge by preparing today - but we need your help to spread awareness of our mission.
• What is Blue Ribbon Week at the schools?•
Blue ribbon week is a “Spirit Week” with daily activities that reinforce The Monique Burr Foundation’s 5 Safety Rules being taught in your child’s school. The safety rules are designed to empower children to recognize and respond to bullying, cyberbullying, child abuse, and digital dangers. During the month of April various schools will be participating in a week-long program reinforcing the 5 Safety Rules with numerous activities. We hope all children are encouraged to participate during Child Abuse Awareness month.
Here are a few ways you can take action this month.
➊Protect the Children in Your Life
Calling all parents and caregivers! We know this is a trying time for you. We know this is also difficult for the children in your lives. We want to provide a few resources to help you keep your children safe during this time of social distancing. Our prevention partner Darkness to Light, has some helpful information on protecting children during this crisis. Please check out the links below and share with family and friends.
Monique Burr Foundation Child Abuse Prevention Month Resource
Taking Proactive Steps During The Coronavirus Pandemic
Minimizing Opportunity During Coronavirus Quarantine
Meeting the Needs of Children During COVID-19
Talking to Kids about Body Safety and Consent Toolkit
Preventing Child Abuse During School Breaks
Resources for Supporting Children’s Emotional Well-being during the COVID-19 Pandemic
➋Internet Safety for Children and Adults
In this quickly changing environment, our children have needed to adapt to online learning — and for many of us — much faster than we anticipated. Here are some tips and tools to safely navigate the online world with children.
Internet Safety Tips for Parents and Guardians
Keep Your Kids Safe on the Internet
Parent App Round-Up: Apps that Keep Kids and Teens Safe Online
Safe Online Learning: For Teachers
Family Online Safety Institute
➌FREE Online Trainings
Multiple Online Courses Covering A Variety of Topics
We need to be prepared to continue protecting kids to the best of our ability under any circumstances. Look through these trainings offered by the Monique Burr Foundation for Children. The trainings are provided at no cost and can be taken online at any time. Our partner in student safety, the Monique Burr Foundation, has FOUR online courses offered at no cost! Check them out:
