Family and Youth Advocate
Child abuse is any action or lack of action by a caregiver or another person that results in harm, potential harm, or threat of harm to a child. This can include physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, as well as neglect. It typically involves someone the child knows and trusts.
Common Ways Children Can Be Abused
01.
Physical Abuse
Inflicting physical harm such as hitting, kicking, shaking, or burning.
02.
Emotional Abuse
Behaviors that harm a child's self-worth or emotional well-being, including verbal abuse, rejection, or constant criticism.
03.
Sexual Abuse
Any form of sexual activity with a child, including molestation, exploitation, or exposure to inappropriate sexual content.
04.
Neglect
Failing to provide for a child's basic needs such as food, shelter, medical care, education, and supervision.
05.
Exposure to Domestic Violence
Witnessing or being aware of violence in the home, which can cause significant emotional and psychological harm.
What can I do to support a family/child facing abuse?
Ensure Safety and Build Trust
Create a safe, non-judgmental environment where the child or family feels comfortable sharing their experiences. Listen attentively and believe their accounts without questioning their honesty. Assure them that they are not alone and that their safety is your priority. If a child discloses abuse, reassure them that they did the right thing by speaking up and that the abuse is not their fault. Be mindful of the need for confidentiality to protect their privacy and safety.
Connect with Supportive Resources
Help the family or child access professional support services. This can include contacting local child protective services, domestic violence shelters, or hotlines such as the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline (1-800-4-A-CHILD). Provide information on counseling services for both children and adults, as therapy can help them process their trauma and begin healing. Schools and community organizations can also be valuable resources for additional support and advocacy.
Develop a Safety and Action Plan
Work with the family or child to create a personalized safety plan. For children, this might involve identifying safe places they can go to if they feel threatened and teaching them how to call for help. For families, this can include planning escape routes, securing important documents, and identifying trusted friends or relatives who can offer temporary shelter or support. Ensure that the family knows how to access emergency services and understands their rights and options for legal protection, such as restraining orders.
Family and Youth Advocacy Services
Advocacy
An advocate for a child in an abuse situation provides essential support and protection. They ensure the child's safety, guide them through legal processes, connect them with medical care and counseling, and offer emotional support. Advocates also work to raise awareness about child abuse and promote the child's long-term well-being.
Legal Services
An advocate providing legal services to a child in an abuse situation helps ensure the child's safety and rights. They assist with obtaining protective orders, guide the child and their family through legal proceedings, accompany the child and/or family to court, and connect them with additional legal resources and support.
Support Groups
Ashley, our dedicated Family and Youth Advocate, hosts the Self Care Club to support students in prioritizing their well-being. These groups meet during the school year and are designed to help students develop healthy self-care habits and coping strategies.
Schedule:
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Menomonie Middle School:
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Day: 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month
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Time: 9:50 - 10:20 a.m.
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Menomonie High School:
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Day: 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month
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Time: 10:07 - 10:55 a.m.
Please note that the days and times for these sessions may be subject to change. Check our website or contact us for the most up-to-date information. Join the Self Care Club to learn valuable self-care techniques and connect with peers in a supportive environment.
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