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Prevent Child Abuse America released a report in 2001 estimating that the United States spends $258 million each day as a direct or indirect result of abuse and neglect of our nation's children. This estimate includes the direct costs associated with intervening to help, and treating the medical and emotional problems suffered by abused and neglected children, as well as the indirect costs associated with the long term consequences of abuse and neglect to both the individual and society at large. The annual costs are equilvalent to $1,461.66 per U.S. family.

What can you do to help prevent child abuse.

Teach your child self-protection skills:

• Make sure your child knows how to stay safe in public places.
  
• Teach your child about "good touches" and "bad touches".
  
• Tell your child to say no, get away, and tell you right away if anyone tries to touch him or her.
  
• Abusers often tell their victims to keep it a "secret". Make sure your child understands that it's OK to tell these kinds of "secrets."

Be alert to signs of abuse

If your child tells you about being abused or you see other warning signs:

• Assure your child that he or she did nothing wrong and that you beleive him or her.
  
• Take steps to protect your child from the suspected abuser.
  
• Get medical attention for your child, if you think it is required.
  
• Report the abuse to the police or sheriff.
  
• Seek counseling for your child again, if you think it is required.

For more information in preventing child abuse contact www.preventchildabuse.org