Arapahoe County observes National Child Abuse Prevention Month, rallying support for families during Stay-at-Home order
As the critical need for government-subsidized food, cash and medical assistance for families with children grows during the COVID-19 pandemic, so does the need for resources to support families in other ways that are just as important in keeping children and families secure. Arapahoe County is committed to staying vigilant in serving vulnerable children and urges families to seek out the help available as needed raising awareness to critical issues during National Child Abuse Prevention Month.
Governor Jared Polis extended Colorado’s Stay at Home Public Health Order until April 26, and most schools have announced plans to continue online learning through the rest of the academic year. It’s a lot to handle as some parents are also dealing with the stress of job loss and furloughs.Many parents are dealing with the pressures of home schooling, working from home or continuing to go in to work,caring for loved ones who are elderly, changing normal routines to secure groceries and home essentials,engaging with their children with no breaks and more.
Now, more than ever, communities must rally around families—especially vulnerable children—and find ways to stay connected. Checking in on one another is possible through video chat, phone and email. Community online support groups can offer good ideas and support about how families can get through this time.
Arapahoe County recognizes how stressful these uncertain times can be as families are in close quarters with one another and normal environments can feel cramped. This uncertainty can lead to anxiety, agitation and impatience for children and parents. Here are a few resources supported by the Colorado Department of Human Services, and links to community supports available to citizens.
Building Resiliency
Ways parents and caregivers can care for themselves:
- Be strong in the face of stress. Identify your challenging parenting moments and make a plan for what you will do when these moments come up.
- Nurture caring friendships. Take your book club online or set up an online hangout with friends.
- Grow your knowledge of parenting and childhood development through books, research and online tools.
- Ask for support. Join a parenting group on Facebook or Nextdoor. It helps to know that other parents are experiencing the same struggles as you. Ask your online connections for ideas and advice.
- Help your child manage their feelings and relationships. Assist children developing skills to manage emotions. This is especially important during this time of heightened anxiety. Respond warmly and consistently to your child.
- Take regular breaks during the day when you need them. Create time to relax and do something you enjoy,even if it’s just to sit and read a book for 20 minutes or practice a few yoga poses. Stepping away to recharge is important.
- Go easy on yourself. There’s no such thing as a perfect parent.
Community Support
Report Child Abuse and Neglect
If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, call the County hotline at 303-636-1750 or the statewide hotline at 844-CO-4-KIDS.
